Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia are under an intense rain alert after Protecció Civil activated the INUNCAT flood risk plan in alert phase on Thursday. The warning covers much of the region, with Alt Empordà among the areas most affected.
The forecast points to thunderstorms and localised hail, with the heaviest rain expected between Thursday midday and 8pm. According to the Catalan Meteorological Service, Meteocat, rainfall could exceed 20 litres per square metre in 30 minutes across large parts of Catalonia, especially in Alt Empordà and Berguedà.
Garrotxa, Lluçanès, Osona and Ripollès may see more than 60 litres per square metre in three hours, mainly during the afternoon. For official updates, readers can follow Meteocat and Protecció Civil.
Protecció Civil is urging people to take extra care, follow weather updates and avoid risky situations. The public is being told to stay away from rivers, streams and ravines, even if it is not raining in those places, and not to cross them if the water level looks low.
The alert follows earlier warnings for Alt Empordà about torrential rain, strong winds and rough seas. Authorities say the forecast could cause disruption and localised flooding, so travel and outdoor plans may need to change.
Officials will keep monitoring the situation through Thursday. Readers can also keep up with related coverage on our news page as updates are published.
