The Spanish weather service Aemet has issued its highest alert for Sunday, 18 October 2026, on the Mediterranean coast of the Comunidad Valenciana An Valencia and the north of the province of Alicante is in force for the coastal area in the south of the province of aviso rojo for very heavy and, in some places, persistent rainfall, which may be accompanied by thunderstorms. The warning comes into force in the morning and covers the periods of greatest risk.
According to the official assessment, exceptionally large amounts of rain may fall in a short time. This increases the risk of flash floods, flooding in low-lying areas and rapidly rising streams. The Secretaría General de Protección Civil y Emergencias points to immediate risks in low-lying urban areas, along ramblas and in valleys. Alerts have already been sent to the affected population through the national warning system ES-Alert .
Aemet attributes the weather to a cold air pocket aloft, known in Spain as a DANA. Media outlets are referring to the current situation as DANA Adam. The event began on Saturday and, according to the current forecast, could last until Monday; the most intense phases are expected on Sunday and Monday. The key factor is the influx of very moist Mediterranean air, interacting with cold air aloft and repeatedly triggering strong convection. Aemet gives a high probability for the forecast phenomena, but notes that the areas most affected will only become clear at short notice.
Official advice focuses on preparation and avoiding unnecessary risks: do not drive through flooded underpasses, avoid riversides and low-lying areas, keep drains around homes and properties clear, and keep travel plans flexible. Municipal services and emergency responders are on heightened alert; further local measures may be introduced at short notice depending on how the situation develops. For current safety advice, the authorities direct people to Aemet’s official channels and Protección Civil.
It is confirmed that a red alert has been issued for parts of the Comunidad Valenciana, that Aemet’s severe-weather warnings are ongoing, and that ES-Alert messages have been sent. Assessments of possible rainfall totals, where the weather may move and how long it may last are based on forecasts and may change as new data become available. People in Valencia, Alicante and neighbouring areas should closely monitor further warnings and follow instructions from emergency services.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).