Rain and hail returns to province

HEAVY rainfall hit Valencia Province for the second time last week, depositing over 35 litres per square metre an hour in the capital. More than 15 litres per square metre fell in just 10 minutes as reported by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). Some areas of the province also saw hail.

Once again the heavy downpours have caused town halls problems and damaged property and infrastructure, with flooded roads and tunnels, downed trees and train services being suspended in Valencia, according to Metro Valencia.

The province was put on yellow alert for intense rainfall and Local Police advised motorists to travel with caution. The threat level was raised by the emergency co-ordination centre to orange during the course of the storms as reports came in.

The storm formed north of Castellon out at sea, and intensified in southern and northern parts of the province. It moved south and concentrated on coastal areas and a few kilometre inland to many areas that suffered significant damage during early September.