Schools to stay closed on Tuesday across southern Catalonia as heavy rain continues

Schools in four Terres de l’Ebre counties in southern Catalonia will remain closed on Tuesday following a heavy rainfall episode on Sunday and Monday that caused flooding and widespread damage.

Catalan president Salvador Illa announced on Monday evening, after visiting the affected areas, that mobility restrictions will continue in Montsià, Baix Ebre, Ribera d’Ebre, and Terra Alta counties.

School activities and non-urgent hospital procedures will remain suspended, and residents are encouraged to work remotely and stay indoors whenever possible.

These measures, in place since Storm Alice hit the region on Sunday night, have been lifted in Baix Camp county. 

"It is the most significant heavy rain episode in Terres de l’Ebre in 60 years," Illa said. "Thankfully, we have not had to report any personal casualties, which is very important."

Although further heavy rain is expected throughout the day, and phone alerts were sent earlier, the situation has not been as severe as earlier in the week.

President Illa noted that the initial level of concern has eased and authorities expect a "turning point" in the weather situation by Tuesday morning.

"While intense and torrential rains are still forecast, we hope that conditions will return to more normal levels by Tuesday morning," he said.

The president also reported that eight infrastructures have been severely affected, eight more have sustained significant damage, and roughly 20 to 25 others have been moderately impacted.

Illa explained that part of the extended mobility restrictions aims to allow for faster recovery of damaged roads and infrastructure.

"The plan remains in an emergency phase, not so much because of the intensity of the rain, but due to the repair work needed on infrastructure," he confirmed.

He added that two teams are ready to enter the area with additional equipment to assist with cleanup and infrastructure restoration once conditions improve.

Illa also announced a package of subsidies for the affected region.

The first includes €10 million in grants for the territory, and the second consists of subsidized loans for affected residents.

The total €50 million package will be available to apply for starting Monday next week.