Madrid's mayor issued a stern advisory on September 3, urging all residents to remain indoors as the capital city prepared for torrential rain and severe storms that have been wreaking havoc in various parts of Spain. The national weather agency, AEMET, issued a maximum red alert, signifying possible extreme danger, for September 3 in the Madrid region, Toledo province, and the city of Cadiz.
AEMET's forecast indicates the potential for up to 120 liters per square meter of rain to fall within a span of just 12 hours in Madrid, a deluge that could lead to significant flooding and other weather-related hazards.
"Due to the exceptional and abnormal situation, in which rainfall records will be broken, I ask the people of Madrid to stay at home today," Madrid Mayor Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida emphasized on social media, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
As dark storm clouds loomed over Madrid during the early hours of September 3 afternoon, many residents still ventured outside for their daily activities, despite the red alert.
"I think (the red alert) is a good idea. The best thing to do is not to use your car today. It's going to be strongest at six o'clock so we'll go home earlier," said Manuel Loro, a 42-year-old Madrid resident.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, Madrid's emergency services took proactive steps to notify residents about the flood risks through text messages, advising them to avoid using vehicles and stay indoors to ensure their safety.
The adverse weather conditions also disrupted sporting events in the region, with LaLiga announcing the suspension of an evening match between Atletico Madrid and Sevilla at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium in Madrid due to the red alert.
Meanwhile, on Spain's east coast, in Alcanar, Tarragona, emergency services were forced to confine residents to their homes due to ongoing flooding triggered by an astonishing 215 liters per square meter of rainfall in the past 24 hours.
The combination of these extreme weather events underscores the importance of heeding official advisories and taking precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of residents across Spain, as the nation grapples with the devastating impact of this relentless rainfall. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates and guidance to residents as needed.
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