Dana Storm Floods Barcelona: El Prat Airport Runway Submerged, Flights Cancelled and Diverted

The destructive storm Dana has now struck Barcelona, causing severe flooding and major disruption to transportation across Catalonia. After wreaking havoc in the Valencia region, where it claimed over 200 lives last week, Dana has moved northward, bringing heavy rainfall that has once again led to widespread flooding, this time in Barcelona and surrounding areas. The situation in Barcelona is particularly serious, with the city on red alert as torrential rains continue to pour, triggering warnings and safety measures across the region.

A video from Barcelona’s El Prat airport, one of Spain’s busiest travel hubs, shows the runway partially submerged, making operations difficult and dangerous. Catalonia’s main airport has faced significant disruptions due to the flooding, with at least 50 flights already diverted to other airports across Spain. Additionally, many flights have been canceled, leaving travelers stranded and creating chaos at the airport. Passengers have reported long lines and crowded terminals as they wait for updates on their flights.

The extreme weather has not only impacted air travel but also disrupted the rail system. Numerous train services have been suspended as Dana continues its relentless assault on northeastern Spain. Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente announced these suspensions in response to civil protection officials’ recommendations, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing passenger safety during this severe weather event.

The government has issued a red alert for Barcelona, indicating an extreme weather warning, and messages have been sent to residents’ mobile phones, cautioning them about “extreme and continuous rainfall.” Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors whenever possible, avoid unnecessary travel, and, most importantly, steer clear of ravines, canals, or typically dry channels, which may have rapidly filled due to the rain. The storm has transformed usually dry areas into dangerous, fast-moving waterways, creating significant risks for anyone venturing too close.

Dana’s impact is another stark reminder of how extreme weather patterns are increasingly affecting Spain, bringing not only destructive floods but also significant loss of life and property damage. For those in Barcelona, the immediate focus remains on staying safe and weathering the storm, but for officials and residents alike, the long-term question looms about how to better prepare for similar storms in the future.

As the rain continues to fall, Catalonia’s emergency services, along with local police and civil protection teams, are working tirelessly to manage the crisis. Authorities are monitoring water levels, directing traffic, and providing assistance to those in need. With the extent of damage still being assessed and weather forecasts remaining uncertain, residents and officials are bracing for what might lie ahead as Dana continues its path through northeastern Spain.