AEMET issues warning for the potential for heavy rain and storms on Tuesday and Wednesday

Monday 2nd May 2022 – Mike Smith
Sources: AEMET Meteorological Warning / Climate Laboratory at the University of Alicante

The state meteorological agency AEMET has activated YELLOW alert risk warning for the potential for heavy rain and storms from midnight tonight Monday 2nd May which could affect many places throughout the Marina Alta region until midnight Wednesday 4th May.

AEMET advises that there is a 40%-70% probability that the Marina Alta region as well as the southern part of the Valencian province could see periods of intense rainfall with precipitation rates of 20mm in one hour possible over the 48 hours from midnight tonight, with the possibility of hail on Tuesday.

The University of Alicante‘s Climate Laboratory explained that a new pocket of cold air will result in a very unstable situation during the first half of this week, resulting in showers and storms that will be locally strong and could also produce hail. They add that these situations are notoriously irregular over very short distances, describing it as a “lottery” as to who will receive the heaviest rain and who will not be so affected. From Thursday, the situation will tend to stabilize.

Note: The alert doesn’t mean that these conditions are definitely going to affect us but that the models are showing that there is a good chance that they may do so so it’s best to be prepared.

Prepare for the Worst

1. Check guttering and drains. They should be clear of leaves and other debris to allow the rainwater to flow away easily. Take a look at the drains in the street in front of your property. It’s the council’s job to keep them clear but checking them yourself before the arrival of heavy rain can help protect your home.
   
2. Prepare the terrace and garden. Cover up and secure patio furniture. Bring in anything that is likely to be blown around the garden and cause damage.
   
3. Protect valuables. If you live in an area that is liable to flooding, you might want to consider gathering together any valuable or sentimental items and store them in a safe area of the house – not the basement – during the periods of heavy rain. Just in case. Material items can be replaced, memories can’t.
   
4. Avoid driving. During periods of heavy rain, it is best to stay put, wherever you are, and avoid driving in low-lying areas and zones where water is likely to collect. Don’t attempt to cross the river if the water is flowing as it may be deeper and stronger than it appears; it only takes a few centimetres of fast flowing water to dislodge a vehicle. If the heavy rain causes poor visibility whilst driving, stop and wait until it passes.