Storm Hortense Batters Madrid
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange weather warning for much of the Madrid region for today, Friday 22nd January.
The weather warning is due to heavy rain and strong winds with gusts that could reach up to 100 kph.
The strong winds are caused by Storm ‘Hortense’ that is sweeping through the Iberian Peninsula.
The latest storm comes in the wake of Storm Filomena which brought sub zero temperatures and the heaviest snow in 50 years to the region and bringing the capital to a standstill.
The rising temperature and heavy rainfall has brought flooding to many areas and a fear that the drainage system will overflow to the extremely high volume of water from the melting snow and rainfall.
In addition the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida has warned of the risk to life from falling trees and branches due to the high winds.
Madrid’s parks including the historic Parque Retiro and Casa de Campo remain closed due to the operation to clear debris from Filomena.
The Madrid Sierra, will be the worst hit part of the region and will see additional snowfall above 1600 meters.
Madrid’s Emergency Services have advised drivers to exercise caution, especially when passing lorries and at tunnel exits and entrances, as well as to maintain increased safety distance from other vehicles.
In addition, they have advised people in their homes to remove objects from the terraces and balconies that may fall in the face of gusts of wind, such as flowerpots and plants that could fall on passersby.
