Sudden Downpours Drop Over 40 Litres per Square Metre in Several Towns

A powerful storm system swept across Alicante province on Friday, May 23, bringing heavy rain and flooding to many towns along the coast and inland. In just a few hours, several areas recorded over 40 litres of rainfall per square metre. Streets in parts of Alicante city and the Marina Alta were transformed into fast-flowing streams, as drains struggled to cope with the volume of water.

The heaviest rain was concentrated along the coast, particularly in the Marina Alta, Marina Baixa, l’Alacantí, Baix Vinalopó, and Vega Baja regions. In Benidoleig, rain fell so fast it caused localised flooding. In Alicante city, some neighbourhoods experienced water pooling on roads and pavements. Residents also reported sewage overflow from the drainage system, and local councils, including Alicante and El Campello, responded by closing public parks and taking other safety precautions.

Rainfall Totals Show Widespread Impact

According to data from Avamet (Valencian Association of Meteorology) rainfall totals were especially high in the northern parts of the province:

• Sagra (Marina Alta): 46.4 l/m²
• El Verger: 43.8 l/m²
• Murla: 42.7 l/m²
• Orba: 37.6 l/m²
• Pedreguer: 37.4 l/m²
• L’Alfàs del Pi: 39.0 l/m²
• Alicante city: 31.0 l/m²
• Santa Pola: 31.8 l/m²
• El Campello: 28.8 l/m²
• Benidorm: 27.6 l/m²
• Orihuela: 20.0 l/m²
• Miramar: 19.2 l/m²
• Pego: 23.4 l/m²

In many cases, these totals were recorded in less than eight hours. While no serious damage has been reported so far, the intense rainfall caused traffic delays, property flooding, and disruption to daily life in several towns.

¡Un paso atrás hacia el #verano! Esta tarde (23/05/2025), así está la situación en #Benidorm (#Alicante). Se han registrado 30 litros por metro cuadrado y sigue lloviendo. Esto es un puro espejismo, mañana vuelve el Sol para quedarse. Vídeo: @Ju33les. pic.twitter.com/0mKcbqgEuJ

— MeteOrihuela (@MeteOrihuela) May 23, 2025

Weather Alerts Lifted as Conditions Improve

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) had issued an orange alert for the coast of Alicante on Friday, warning of strong storms and possible flooding. That alert remained in place until 6:00 p.m., but has since been lifted. Aemet also issued a yellow alert for inland areas, which has now expired as well. By the evening, the storms had weakened considerably, becoming lighter and more scattered, and there were no further reports of severe incidents.

Weekend Forecast: Clear Skies and Rising Temperatures

After Friday’s intense weather, a calmer weekend is expected. Aemet forecasts mostly clear skies throughout the province, with minimal cloud cover. Minimum temperatures will remain steady, but daytime highs are expected to rise, especially in inland areas. Light coastal breezes will help bring some relief from the heat.

The worst of the storm appears to be over, but local authorities are continuing to monitor water levels and drainage systems in case of any delayed impacts. Residents are advised to stay informed via official channels and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.

Main image: Shutterstock/JW.photography31