AEMET issues warning for the potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms in the Marina Alta

Tuesday 8th November 2022 – Mike Smith
Sources: AEMET / University of Alicante

The state meteorological agency AEMET has issued a YELLOW alert risk warning for the potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms, active from midnight Wednesday 9th November until – for the moment – midday on Friday 11th November.

Confirming the radical change in the weather that has been forecast for the end of this week, AEMET advises that there is a 40%-70% probability that the Marina Alta region could see periods of locally intense rainfall with precipitation rates of up to 30mm in one hour and up to 60mm in twelve hours at times, which could be accompanied by thunderstorms.

This risk is also valid for the rest of the coastal areas of Alicante (Benidorm, Villajoyosa, Alicante, Elx, Orihuela, Torrevieja, Novelda) and the region of La Safor (Gandía, Alzira, Cullera).

This potential stormy period, which is being caused by cold air at height, a ‘gota fría’, is accompanied by a decrease in the daily maximum temperatures by up five degrees in the inland mountainous regions and a little less on the coast where temperatures are not expected to exceed 22°c.

The rain is expected to continue into Friday and Saturday, whilst Sunday will bring sunnier spells and a return to a more stable environment.

Remember that it is a mistake to consider that a “gota fría” is a synonym for torrential rain. Not all “gota frías” cause torrential rains, nor are all intense rains associated with them.

Note: The alert doesn’t mean that these conditions are definitely going to affect us here in Xàbia 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.