AEMET Weather Warning: Potential for heavy rain and storms on Tuesday

Monday 12th June 2023
Mike Smith

The state meteorological agency AEMET has issued an ORANGE risk warning for the potential of heavy and intense periods of rain accompanied by thunderstorms throughout Tuesday eastern coast of Spain, including the Costa Blanca.

There is a 40-70% probability of intense and persistent local downpours through the region with a potential accumulation rate of 40mm per hour, valid from 12 noon tomorrow (Tuesday) to midnight the same day. These could be accompanied by thunderstorms which might produce hail.

Note: The advisory is given for a wide area known as ‘Litoral Norte de Alicante’ – the Northern Coast of Alicante Province – which covers a wide area extending as far inland as Ontinyent and Alcoy as well as the mountains of the interior of the Marina Alta. Consequently, this warning might not affect us directly on the coast but might be more felt inland. Nevertheless, a warning is something that should be acknowledged and the necessary preparations made (see below).

Be prepared.

If you have time, check your drainage system as guttering can often become blocked by leaves and other debris, especially over the recent few months when we have had very little rain.

It’s also worth checking the seals around doors and windows. Silicon can degrade over time, especially in the high temperatures that are often experienced here in Spain.

Don’t forget to bring in cushions and stack chairs and sunbeds safely in a corner. Intense downpours can often be accompanied by strong gusts of wind so it’s best to be prepared rather than spend time searching for cushions, etc. across the local neighbourhood.

If you live in a low-lying area or a zone which is prone to flooding, you should prepare for the worst-case scenario. Keep important documents or sentimental items off the floor and consider storing in a waterproof container.