'Extreme risk' warning issued as Irish tourists told to brace for torrential rain in Spain

Irish holidaymakers heading to Spain are being urged to take extra care as the country braces for a bout of "extreme risk" weather that could dump up to 180mm of rain in just a few hours.

Spain's official meteorological service, AEMET, has issued red alerts along the eastern coastline, including the popular regions of Valencia, Castellón, and Tarragona, warning that torrential downpours could lead to dangerous flooding and travel disruptions.

According to the alert, the most severe conditions are expected between Sunday night and late Monday, with the possibility of flash floods as the rain falls in sudden, heavy bursts.

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AEMET said: "Accumulated precipitation in 12 hours: 180 mm. The 180 mm can accumulate in just 3 or 4 hours."

Irish forecaster Alan O'Reilly, who runs Carlow Weather, echoed the concern in a post on X, writing: "Red warnings issued for parts of Spain today and Monday including Tarragona, Castellón and Valencia. Significant risk of flooding and flash flooding so take great it holidaying in those areas over next 48 hours."

The agency also warned of thunderstorms and possible hail, as well as plunging daytime temperatures in the affected areas. Locally torrential rainfall is forecast for the Mediterranean coast, the Balearic Islands, and the Alboran region, as the remnants of ex-Hurricane Gabrielle move over the Iberian Peninsula.

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Other parts of Spain, including Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Balearics, are expected to experience unsettled conditions with overcast skies, heavy showers, and strong winds. Maximum temperatures are also expected to dip sharply inland.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reminded Irish citizens in Spain to stay alert. Its website warns: "Spain can at times experience extreme weather conditions. Citizens are advised to check the latest weather information before they travel and to follow the advice of the local authorities."

The DFA advises visitors to monitor local media and social media, and to carry the local emergency number, 112, which has English-speaking operators available. Irish citizens can also keep up to date by following the Irish Embassy in Madrid on X at @IrlEmbMadrid.

With thousands of Irish people travelling to Spain every week, officials are urging caution. As the DFA notes: "Visitors to Spain are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what's going on by monitoring local news and social media."