Summary
- Orange weather alert by AEMET triggers widespread class suspensions on Tuesday, September 9, across Vega Baja.
- Heavy rains and storms have already caused damage and road closures in municipalities like Redován, Cox, Callosa de Segura, and Orihuela.
- Multiple towns including Cox, Orihuela, Torrevieja, Callosa de Segura, Redován, Benejúzar, Almoradí, Bigastro, Dolores, San Miguel de Salinas, and Rojales suspend school and outdoor activities.
- The Miguel Hernández University suspends all classes on both Orihuela campuses.
- Precautionary measures include closing parks, suspending sports, and avoiding outdoor gatherings to ensure public safety.
Orange Alert Cancels classes Across Vega Baja Amid Severe Storm Forecast
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain and thunderstorms affecting the entire Vega Baja region on Tuesday, September 9. Following a wet microburst event on Monday that caused material damages, fallen trees, and temporary road closures, local authorities have taken precautionary measures to suspend educational activities and outdoor events to protect residents.
What Happened on Monday?
On the afternoon of September 8, intense localized storms or a “wet microburst” impacted several towns including Redován, Cox, Callosa de Segura, and Orihuela. The storms caused:
- Significant property damage
- Fallen trees obstructing roads
- Temporary road closures hampering traffic
The risk of similar events occurring on Tuesday prompted numerous municipalities to act promptly.
Schools and Outdoor Activities Suspended
Several city councils have announced the cancellation of all classes and outdoor public activities on Tuesday. Key affected municipalities include:
| Municipality | Measures Taken |
|---|---|
| Cox | All school activities suspended for September 9 |
| Orihuela | Classes, sports, and outdoor events canceled |
| Torrevieja | School suspension due to weather risks |
| Callosa de Segura | Suspended all educational centers & closed parks and sports facilities |
| Redován | Postponed school start to Wednesday; no outdoor sports or municipal schools |
| Benejúzar | Classes and outdoor sports suspended until further notice |
| Almoradí | Classes and outdoor sports activities suspended |
| Bigastro, Dolores, San Miguel de Salinas, Rojales | Classes suspended for Tuesday |
University Also Suspends Activities
The Universidad Miguel Hernández has followed suit by suspending all academic activities on both its Orihuela campuses – Salesas and desamparados - on Tuesday. Students and staff were advised to stay updated via official channels and prioritize safety during this time.
Safety Measures to Protect Citizens
Alongside class suspensions,several municipalities have taken extra safety steps such as:
- Closing public parks and gardens to prevent accidents from falling branches
- Halting all outdoor sports and recreational activities
- Alerting citizens through social media and local announcements about potential hazards
What You Should Do If You Live in Vega Baja
If you reside in the vega Baja region,it is vital to pay close attention to weather updates and local government notices. Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Avoid outdoor activities on Tuesday, especially in parks or near trees
- Stay informed through official websites and social media accounts of your municipality
- Be cautious traveling, as some roads may be closed or dangerous due to water accumulation or fallen debris
- Prepare emergency supplies in case the weather worsens
Conclusion
The orange alert issued by AEMET has prompted decisive action across the Vega Baja municipalities to minimize risks linked to the approaching storm system. With schools closed and outdoor events canceled, authorities prioritize citizen safety amid adverse weather conditions.Residents are encouraged to stay alert and follow local advisories until the alert is lifted.
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Article based on data from Diario de la Vega: https://www.diariodelavega.com/la-alerta-naranja-motiva-la-suspension-de-clases-en-la-vega-baja/