Some people in Spain appear to have covered their cars in plastic wrap ahead of another approaching storm.
Two weeks ago Spain experienced the worst floods in its modern history, with more than 220 people killed in the disaster.
Spain’s national weather service AEMET has issued an orange alert, the second-highest, for strong or torrential rains expected today near the flood-hit eastern city of Valencia, as well as red warnings around the southern cities of Marbella and Malaga.
As much as 120mm (4.6in) of rain has been forecast in the space of 12 hours around Valencia, while 180mm (7.1in) has been forecast around Marbella and Malaga.
Although the storm is not expected to be as powerful as the one that hit earlier this month, it could wreak further destruction in towns near Valencia still recovering from the floods.
The rain could have a severe impact because of the quantities of mud already on the ground and because of the condition of the sewage system, said Rosa Tauris, a spokesperson for Valencia’s emergency committee.
Thousands of workers are still removing mud and debris that has accumulated on the roads and clogged sewage pipes and drains in towns around Valencia.
The emergency committee issued a special warning requesting municipalities and organisations to take preventative measures, including closing schools.
Ms Tauris also recommended people work remotely and avoid non-essential travel.
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Rush to clear sewage system ahead of rain
Yesterday people rushed to clear the sewage system of mud and debris, as well as pile sandbags, in the town of Aldaia.
On Monday some 10,000 tons of furniture, appliances and clothing were removed – almost as much waste as Valencia disposes of in a year.
Army personnel clean a drainage system blocked by mud in Paiporta, Valencia. Pic: Reuters
Sandbags were set up to contain the approaching storm in Aldaia, Valencia. Pic: AP
Weather alerts cover much of Spain’s Mediterranean coast.
It comes after thousands of people marched in Valencia over the weekend to demand the resignation of the region’s president following the response to the devastating flooding.
Protesters filled the centre of the eastern Spanish city and chanted “killers!” as they called for Carlos Mazon to go, while others dumped muddy boots outside a regional government building.
One banner read: “Our hands are stained with mud, yours with blood.”
