- A humid windstorm with wind gusts above 100 km/h hit vega Baja on september 8, 2025, causing extensive damage.
- Heavy rainfall overwhelmed several areas with up to 32 liters per square meter recorded in Cox.
- Fallen trees and blocked roads disrupted local traffic and emergency services performed 26 rescues and cleanups.
- No casualties were reported despite a car accident on the A-7 due to adverse weather.
- Municipalities suspended outdoor events,classes,and closed parks as precautionary measures.
- Meteorological authorities issued an orange alert warning for ongoing storms and heavy rain in the region.
Severe Humid Windstorm Strikes Vega Baja: High Winds,Heavy Rain,and Emergency Responses
On the afternoon of September 8,2025,the Vega Baja comarca in southeastern Spain was hit by a powerful humid windstorm resulting in intense wind gusts soaring up to 105 km/h.This sudden weather event, frequently enough referred to locally as a “reventón húmedo,” brought heavy rainfall and caused widespread disruption across several towns in the region.
Record-Breaking Winds and Intense Rainfall
According to MeteOrihuela weather data, the strongest wind gust was recorded at the Seminario de Orihuela with 105 km/h, followed by 92 km/h in Cox and 89 km/h in Callosa de Segura. The storm also dumped fast and intense rainfall in minutes:
| Location | Rainfall (liters/m²) | Max Wind Gust (km/h) |
|---|---|---|
| Cox | 32 | 92 |
| Callosa de Segura | 31 | 89 |
| Granja de Rocamora | 27 | — |
| Benferri | 16 | — |
Fallen Trees and Blocked Roads Cause Havoc
The rush of winds caused several mature trees, including palm trees, to snap and fall, blocking key roadways. Particularly affected was the Orihuela-Redován road, which remained partially obstructed due to debris. Residents captured striking images of a palm tree split in two by the fierce gusts, highlighting the storm’s strength.
The Provincial Fire Consortium responded quickly, performing 26 interventions as the storm began around 16:45, focusing mainly on:
- Clearing fallen trees and electric posts from public roads.
- Rescuing stranded individuals and clearing flooded areas (two water pumps/removals).
Notably, there were no injuries reported, demonstrating an effective emergency response throughout the troubled hours.
Road Accident on A-7 Highway
At 17:23, emergency teams were called to a traffic accident on the A-7 highway in Orihuela. A vehicle veered off the road due to arduous conditions and ended trapped beneath a bridge. Firefighters successfully rescued the driver, who was in stable condition.
Precautionary Closures and Event Cancellations
In response to the severe weather and potential risks, local councils implemented multiple safety measures:
- Orihuela City Council closed all municipal outdoor facilities and canceled planned pyrotechnic celebrations for the Feast of the Virgin of Monserrate.
- Redován and Cox suspended religious events, including masses and processions honoring their patron saints.
- Cox additionally closed parks and announced school closures for the following day (September 9).
- Other municipalities confirming school closures include San miguel de Salinas,Dolores,Rafal,Benejúzar,Almoradí,and Torrevieja.
Meteorological Warning: Orange Alert Active
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) escalated weather warnings to orange level due to increasing instability forecasted for the coming hours. Citizens in Vega Baja are advised to remain cautious as heavy rains and strong storms continue to affect the area.
What You Should Know During Such Storms
- Stay indoors whenever possible, especially during extreme wind gusts.
- Avoid driving on blocked or flooded roads to prevent accidents.
- Keep updated with local weather reports and official announcements via social media or municipal websites.
- Follow instructions from emergency services and local authorities.
the events of September 8 serve as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in vulnerable regions like Vega Baja.
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Sources
- Elisa Gil, “A humid windstorm provokes numerous incidents in vega Baja”, vegabajadigital.com