- Classes suspended for the second consecutive day across 44 municipalities in Alicante province due to an orange alert for heavy rains.
- Approximately 215,000 students, including university attendees, are affected by school closures.
- Public spaces, outdoor facilities, and cultural events have also been closed or postponed to safeguard public safety.
- Several municipalities in the Vega Baja and surrounding regions are enforcing emergency protocols and recommending teleworking were possible.
- Many local festivals and events have been canceled or rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions.
heavy Rains Trigger Widespread School Closures and Public Safety Measures in Alicante
Following consecutive days of severe weather and the activation of an orange alert for heavy rainfall, the province of Alicante is experiencing significant disruptions in daily routines. On Monday and Tuesday, September 8-9, 2025, a total of 44 municipalities halted educational activities affecting over 215,000 students, spanning from primary schools to universities. The Generalitat Valenciana declared a level 1 emergency, prompting local governments to enforce preventive measures to protect citizens and critical infrastructure.
What caused the School Closures?
The closures are a direct response to the sustained heavy rains that have put several areas at risk of flooding and other weather-related hazards. The warning,issued by the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET),led to specially convened emergency coordination centers (Cecopal) across municipalities,which made the collective decision to suspend classes.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Affected Municipalities | 44 |
| Students Affected | Approximately 215,000 |
| Types of Schools Closed | Public, private, and concertados (semi-private) institutions |
| Universities Impacted | University of Alicante (UA) and Miguel Hernández University of elche (UMH) |
| Emergency Level | Level 1 declared by Generalitat Valenciana |
Areas most Affected by Class Suspensions
The first wave of closures on Monday afternoon came from the L’Alacantí comarca municipalities, including:
- El Campello
- Sant Joan d’Alacant
- Alicante city
- San Vicente del Raspeig
- Aigües
Additional municipalities across the Vega Baja and other regions soon joined the decision, such as:
- Rojales, Daya Nueva, Torrevieja, Almoradí, Granja de Rocamora, Cox, Rafal, Albatera
- Dolores, Catral, Redován, Benejúzar, Algorfa, benferri, Benijófar, Bigastro
- Formentera del Segura, Guardamar del Segura, San Miguel de Salinas, San Isidro, San Fulgencio
- Los Montesinos, Jacarilla, Callosa de Segura
- Elche, Santa Pola, Crevillente (Bajo Vinalopó)
- La Algueña, Pinoso (Medio Vinalopó)
- Benidorm, orxeta (Marina Baixa)
- Calpe, Xàbia, Teulada (Marina Alta)
- Ibi (L’Alcoià)
- biar, El Camp de Mirra (Alto Vinalopó)
Public Spaces and Events: Closures and Modifications
To reduce risks during this hazardous weather, municipalities have not only suspended classes but also closed public parks, monuments, cemeteries, and sports facilities. Cultural venues like the Casa de Cultura, local libraries, and social centers have paused programmed activities.
Impact on Local Festivities
- Elda: Cancelled concerts at Plaza Castelar and the Nuevo Almafrá esplanade, plus all events linked to the Fiestas Mayores.
- Xàbia: Postponed the Monday orchestra performance; fireworks festivities moved up to 22:00 following a procession.
- Villena: moorish and Christian festival procession postponed; the city’s mayor mentioned possible choice plans for a shorter street visitation by the Virgin statue.
Safety Recommendations and Telework Encouragement
Following the special flood plan by the Generalitat Valenciana, local authorities strongly advise residents and workers to prioritize safety by:
- Switching to teleworking whenever possible during alert conditions.
- Communicating travel difficulties to employers when telework isn’t feasible.
- Remaining vigilant and cooperating with emergency services for collective safety.
Stay Updated, Stay Safe
The weather alert remains active, and institutions continue monitoring evolving conditions closely. Residents are encouraged to follow official channels and heed any emergency instructions to mitigate risks associated with the heavy rains.
For continuous updates on this situation and other related news, follow local government announcements and trusted meteorological sources.