- The Generalitat Valenciana activates an orange alert for heavy rain and storms across Alicante province.
- Schools, universities, and outdoor public activities suspended on 9 September in numerous municipalities including Alicante, Elche, Benidorm, and el Campello.
- Public spaces such as parks, beaches, and cultural centers closed to minimize risk.
- Authorities advise residents to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take safety precautions at home and on the road.
- Emergency services are fully activated, with shelters and support open for vulnerable populations.
Severe Weather Forces Suspension of Classes and Public Activities in Alicante Province
The Generalitat Valenciana has issued an orange weather alert due to forecasted intense rain and storms,prompting extensive precautionary measures across the province of Alicante on Tuesday,9 September 2025. The Centro de Coordinación de Emergencias has activated the Special Flood Plan to deal with potential flooding and storm damage.
Widespread School and University Closures
In response to the heightened risk, local governments from a broad list of municipalities – including Alicante, Benidorm, Elche, Santa Pola, Torrevieja, Orihuela, El Campello, and many others – have suspended all classes in primary, secondary, and vocational education centers. this suspension extends to:
- Adult education centers
- Official Schools of Languages
- Universities including the University of Alicante, Miguel Hernández University (UMH), UNED, and CEU Cardenal Herrera University (with online teaching and remote work arrangements)
The expectation is that normal activity will resume on Wednesday, 10 September, conditions permitting.
Alicante City Takes Extensive Safety Measures
The Alicante City Council, led by mayor Luis Barcala, has gone beyond school closures to close public parks, gardens, and the iconic Santa Bárbara Castle. Restrictions include:
- Ban on swimming with beaches marked with red flags
- Suspension of outdoor sports and closure of social/community centers
- Opening of the Social Emergency and Shelter Center (CAUS) for homeless individuals from noon to 10 PM
- Inspection and preventive closures of areas with large trees to prevent wind damage
Authorities strongly urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor activities, especially during peak rainfall hours predicted between 12:00 and 22:00.
Elche and el Campello Implement Similar Precautions
Elche authorities,led by Mayor Pablo Ruz,have called for the suspension of all educational and extra-curricular outdoor activities. The customary marketplace will also not operate during the alert.
El Campello’s mayor, Juanjo Berenguer, has ordered the closure of public parks, the cemetery, sports facilities, libraries, and cultural centers. employees are encouraged to work remotely when possible, and residents are advised to stay informed through official updates.
Additional Municipalities Joining the Suspension
The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has extended the alert province-wide due to forecasts of potentially very heavy rainfall - up to 40 liters per square meter in one hour and in some coastal areas,up to 100 liters in 12 hours.
| Municipality | Status Tuesday, 9 Sept. |
|---|---|
| Benidorm | Classes suspended |
| Torrevieja | Classes suspended |
| Orihuela | Classes & market suspended |
| Santa Pola | Classes suspended |
| Bigastro | Classes suspended |
| San Vicente del Raspeig | Classes suspended |
Safety Recommendations for Residents
Authorities and emergency services emphasize the importance of being prepared and cautious. Key safety tips include:
- Keep updated with official weather forecasts via Aemet and local emergency portals.
- Secure your home by cleaning gutters, checking roofs for damage, and moving loose objects indoors to avoid hazards.
- Prepare emergency kits with flashlights, first aid, important documents, and ensure dialog devices are charged.
- Avoid parking vehicles in dry riverbeds, river banks, or flood-prone areas.
- Follow evacuation orders promptly, closing off utilities and securing your home before leaving.
- Drivers should avoid flooded roads and never attempt to cross submerged routes.
- During electrical storms, stay indoors away from windows, avoid trees, water bodies, and unplug electrical appliances.
After the Storm: What to Do
Once the alert ends, residents are encouraged to:
- Inspect their homes for any damage
- Check that essential services (water, electricity) are safe to use
- Follow hygiene and safety protocols as advised by authorities
- Help with community cleaning and restoration efforts if possible
Emergency Contacts and Information Sources
For emergencies, dial 112, the 24/7 emergency number operational throughout the Valencian Community.
Stay informed through these official portals:
Sources: