The storms hit Zaragoza and its surroundings with force, leaving streets flooded and vehicles trapped. The city's Fire Department carried out at least 17 interventions to pump out water and rescue drivers. The Ebro Hydrographic Confederation (CHE) warns of possible flash floods in ravines and dry riverbeds in the region.
Early warning systems and urban drainage under pressure 🌧️
The torrential rains tested the CHE's flow sensors and gauging stations. Real-time data allowed emergency protocols to be activated in risk areas. However, the capacity of urban drainage systems was exceeded in several low-lying points of the city, where accumulated water reached half a meter in height in less than an hour.
The CHE warns, but the ravines do as they please 🌊
The CHE issues hydrological warnings, but the ravines in the region seem to have a life of their own and decide to swell whenever they feel like it. While firefighters pump water and drivers curse, the warning systems sound without anyone paying much attention. In the end, water always finds its way, even if it's through a car's dashboard.