Flood Airlift Rescue
The heavy rainfall in Andalucía has affected many of the provinces but here locally, the towns of Alhaurín de la Torre and Cártama have been worst hit. Freak flooding has led to the closure of hundreds of roads and railways around Andalucía. Rivers burst their banks in many parts of the region, leading to hundreds of homes being flooded. The ‘Protección Civil’ from Alhaurín has given these practical tips to bear in mind when faced with storms or floods:
Storms in the Countryside
- Avoid staying on top of hills or high places and do not shelter under trees, especially if they isolated.
- Stay away from wire fences, railings and other metal objects.
- If you are driving and are caught in a storm, remember that a closed car can be a good shelter. Slow down, exercise caution and do not stop in areas where you can a lot of water can collect.
Storms in the City
Within urban areas there are also dangers from lightning.
- On the street, the shelter from the buildings lowers the risk of lightning strikes.
- When indoors be careful that there are no drafts, as they attract lightning so close doors and windows in case of storms.
- You should protect electrical appliances, computers, etc. by unplugging them to avoid them being damaged by a power surge or giving an electric shock. If it is absolutely necessary to have such items plugged in and operating, install a surge protector or a UPS.
Preventative measures to avoid the risk of flooding
- Remove from outside the house items that could be washed away.
- Check periodically the state of the roof, the building gutters and nearby drains.
- Place important papers and especially hazardous materials in places where there are less risks of water or moisture damage.
- Do not park vehicles or camp out on dry river beds or river banks to avoid being surprised by a sudden flow of water or a flash flood.
What to do in case of emergency by heavy rain
- Remain constantly informed through radio and other media about the weather and the current state of the situation
- If the house becomes flooded it is essential to leave as soon as possible the basements and ground floors and disconnect the electrical power.
- Use torches for lighting if possible.
- If you have to travel, try to use major roads and motorways if possible.
- If you are in the countryside, move away from rivers, streams and low lying areas of hill slopes.
- Avoid crossing flooded fords.
- Move to the highest spots in the area.
Home Flooded
For some photos (including larger versions of those used in this post) from the recent floods this month in Alhaurín and Cártama please visit the Diario Sur’s page: http://www.diariosur.es/multimedia/fotos/malaga/51266-temporal-malaga-afecta-alhaurin-torre-cartama-(16022010)-0.html
