The floods exceed forecasts in Baix Penedès and Tarragonès: Government acts without ES-Alert warning

The floods in Baix Penedès and Tarragonès have exceeded weather forecasts, and the Government has mobilized to address the damage caused. Despite this, no ES-Alert warning was sent to mobile phones because the alert level was 4 out of 6, according to the Minister of Justice, Ramon Espadaler.

The minister, who traveled to Vendrell to monitor the episode, emphasized that meteorology is not an exact science and that alerts cannot be issued without sufficient information. He highlighted that the emergency response has been effective and that the declaration of a disaster area is currently ruled out.

Government Response to the Floods

How has the Government managed the damage?

The Government has made available to municipalities the necessary resources to repair the damages caused by the floods. Espadaler highlighted the capacity for response and explained that emergency calls and attention services were concentrated between 3 and 5 in the early morning.

What incidents have been recorded?

Among the most serious cases, in Roda de Berà a wall fell on three people inside a market stall, with a minor in critical condition admitted to Joan XVIII Hospital. Safe evacuations have also been ensured in campsites, crucial during the tourist season.

Decisions on Communication and Alerts

Why was the ES-Alert not sent?

Espadaler argued that the alert level of 4 out of 6 did not justify sending the ES-Alert. Caution in issuing alerts is based on the inherent uncertainty of meteorology.

What is expected in the coming hours?

The Government will maintain contact with mayors and will monitor the expected rainfall in the afternoon, especially in the Ebro Delta and the Montsià region, where lower intensity is anticipated.

Local Impact and Monitoring of the Floods

How does this affect residents and tourists?

Evacuations in campsites and tourist areas have been prioritized to ensure safety during peak season. It now remains to be seen if those affected will be able to continue their vacations or if reorganization will be necessary.

Who is leading the monitoring of the situation?

Ramon Espadaler has traveled to the affected area by delegation of President Illa, who is abroad. The Minister of the Interior, Núria Parlon, monitored the situation during the night.

The unexpected rains and the decision to avoid a general alert highlight the complexity of managing meteorological emergencies. The question is: how do residents prepare for such episodes? The Government is currently on alert, ready to act but without wanting to cause alarm without reason.

The reality is that emergency control has been swift, but the effects of the rains will leave a mark on the region. The floods, the alert level, and the Government’s response will be key to assessing management in the coming days.

Source of the article: Editorial / Catalan News Agency