Spain is bracing for severe weather as Storm Bruna and the approaching subtropical Storm Charles threaten the country with heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and dangerous sea conditions. A rare red weather alert has been issued for northern Cáceres and southern Ávila on Tuesday, November 10, due to the potential for rainfall to reach 120mm within 12 hours. Authorities have warned of flash flooding, rapidly rising rivers, and possible landslides.
In response to the impending weather, schools across northern Cáceres have been ordered to close as Extremadura activates its emergency flood response plan. Some mountainous areas could receive over 150mm of rain, with total rainfall exceeding 300mm in certain locations during the storm.
Conditions are expected to worsen on Wednesday, November 11, when Storm Charles approaches the Iberian Peninsula. This will bring widespread heavy rainfall across western and southern Spain, with parts of Andalucía, Extremadura, and Castilla y León possibly experiencing persistent downpours. Some mountainous regions could see nearly 100mm of rain.
Strong winds are another concern, with gusts potentially exceeding 100km/h in exposed areas of western and southwestern Spain. The Canary Islands, particularly La Palma and Tenerife, could experience gusts above 130km/h in mountainous areas.
The coastal regions are also expected to face deteriorating conditions, with waves possibly reaching five meters in the Gulf of Cádiz and four to five meters in western Galicia. Authorities have cautioned residents about the risks of flooding, dangerous travel conditions, falling trees, and damage due to strong winds.
Although Storm Charles is expected to move northeast by Thursday, bringing a gradual improvement in conditions, heavy showers and strong gusts may persist in some areas. Residents and travelers are advised to stay updated with official weather alerts and adhere to local emergency instructions as the situation evolves.