Weather Alert Forces School, Market and Public Facility Closures Across Vega Baja

Severe weather alerts have led to the closure of schools, markets, and public facilities throughout Vega Baja. The orange weather alert, in effect for Thursday, September 17, warned of torrential rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail. Councils implemented precautionary measures to protect the public.

In Orihuela, four schools and institutes in Orihuela Costa were suspended, as well as all municipal markets and outdoor recreational activities. Torrevieja closed parks and outdoor facilities between midnight and 3pm, while Bigastro went a step further, closing all educational establishments and municipal buildings until 4pm. Redován halted activities at parks, the cemetery, sports facilities, and the hermitage's surrounding recreational area.

The cemetery closure came as a precaution to prevent accidents during potential flooding and high winds.

The most significant threat was expected in the early morning, with up to 60 litres per square metre of rain possible within an hour, and up to 120 litres in two to three hours. Thunderstorms could bring hail and strong gusts of wind, increasing the risk of falling branches, unsecured objects, flooded roads, and rapidly rising water in drainage channels.

Authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, refrain from parking in flood-prone areas, and never attempt to cross flooded roads, ravines, watercourses, or low-lying crossings. Municipal departments and emergency services reinforced their response plans to handle flooding, fallen branches, blocked drains, and other weather-related incidents. Redován postponed a vaquilla event scheduled for Sunday, September 20, at 8.30pm.

Residents were urged to monitor official channels for updates and only contact emergency services through the official 112 number in case of an immediate emergency.