The Alicante City Council is urging the Spanish Government to install a meteorological radar in the province to better predict and mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall and flooding. Despite being highly prone to phenomena like Danas (cold drops), Alicante currently relies on data from radars in Murcia and Valencia.
Proposal to the Government
On December 19, the City Council will present an institutional declaration requesting that the Ministry for Ecological Transition include a radar for Alicante in its national plan to implement 13 new meteorological radars. The Council highlights that such a radar is “vital” for obtaining timely, localized data that could save lives during extreme weather events.
The radar would complement Alicante’s Integrated System for Prevention and Alert Against Floods (Sipaid) and the newly established Technical Committee for Risk Evaluation, which aims to coordinate efforts across government levels to enhance public safety and minimize damage.
Historical Flooding and Mitigation Efforts
Alicante’s geographical conditions, including 400 km of natural basins, steep slopes, and urbanized areas, make it vulnerable to sudden and intense rainfall, especially during late summer and autumn. Past episodes, such as the 1997 flood that recorded 266 l/m² of rainfall in seven hours, prompted the city to implement extensive flood control measures.
From 1997 to 2005, major hydraulic infrastructure projects were undertaken, including 109 km of collectors, anti-pollution reservoirs, and the innovative La Marjal Park. These measures have significantly improved drainage and flood resilience.
Future Plans and Radar Benefits
Plans are underway to add three floodable parks and 12 new retention tanks to the city’s infrastructure. A dedicated weather radar would enhance these efforts by providing precise, localized forecasts, enabling authorities to act proactively during severe weather, and further reducing risks to the population.
Alicante’s call for this critical infrastructure underscores its commitment to protecting residents and mitigating the devastating impacts of extreme weather events.
