SPAIN’S MALAGA ACTIVATES EMERGENCY PLAN

MALAGA activates the Special Emergency Plan for floods in the province

As torrential rain continues to lash down in Malaga, the delegate of the accidental Government of the Board in Malaga, Carmen Casero, has activated the Emergency Plan for Flood Risk.

The Emergency Telephone 112 Andalusia has already attended over 70 emergency calls from citizens alerting of incidents on public roads. As Euro Weekly News understands, there are reportedly some fifteen “serious” road incidents as a result of the onslaught of rain and hail which has blocked vehicles and flooded streets.

The severe weather registered this morning in Malaga has caused numerous traffic problems and delays in different parts of the city. Has resulted in the closure of several schools and five aeroplanes diverted from Malaga’s Airport to Granada and Seville.

The emergency plan, which was activated mid-morning, is currently in its provincial phase, “situation 1.”

This level alludes to the presence of flooding in localised areas which can initially can be dealt with by local means and resources. However, the activation of the plan implies permanent communication with the Emergency Coordination Centre of Andalusia (CECEM) and inform at all times of the situation and request the necessary support and resources from the regional administration.

The Municipal Emergency Plans of Málaga, Alhaurín de la Torre and Coín have also been activated.

Orange Weather Alert

The State Agency of Meteorology (Aemet) maintains the orange alert for further rains expected throughout the day in the province of Malaga, especially the regions of the Costa del Sol and Guadalhorce, where heavy rains are expected and with accumulated rainfall of 30 litres per square metre in one hour.

The warning will remain in force until midnight.

Emergency Plan Recommendations For Flooding And Torrential Rain

• Remove all outdoor furniture and objects that can be carried by water.

• Do NOT park vehicles near dry riverbeds, or on the banks of rivers, to avoid being surprised by a sudden flood.

• Motorists should exercise EXTREME caution and respect ALL traffic regulations and indications.

• NEVER attempt driving a car through a flooded areas.

• Avoid driving at night.

The Emergency Coordination Centre of Andalusia also recommends never to drive along a flooded road or cross a bridge or underpass with water, regardless of how familiar the road is.