Flooding in the southeastern Spanish town of Madrigueras resulted in the death of a 102-year-old woman and prompted emergency services to rescue about 90 people, authorities reported. Madrigueras, located near Albacete in Castilla-La Mancha and home to around 4,000 residents, experienced floodwaters reaching depths of one meter (3.2 feet).
The heavy rainfall began on Friday, with Spanish officials recording approximately 140 liters per square meter in the area. The tragic death was confirmed after the woman was found inside her home following the severe flooding.
Government Response and Weather Outlook
Spanish authorities, including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, have acknowledged the situation and are actively monitoring the flooding. Sanchez expressed condolences to the family of the woman who died in Madrigueras via a post on the social media platform X. Meteorological agencies anticipate continued heavy rainfall across eastern Spain through Sunday.
Context of the Extreme Weather
This flooding follows Spain’s hottest summer on record, a period marked by deadly wildfires in northern and southern regions of the country. These fires were fueled by persistent hot and dry conditions, which contrast with the recent heavy rains leading to flooding issues.
