Andalusia Braces for Further Disruption as Storm Oriana Approaches
Table of Contents
- 1. Andalusia Braces for Further Disruption as Storm Oriana Approaches
- 2. Evacuations and Incident Response
- 3. Widespread Damage and Travel Disruptions
- 4. Key Provincial Impacts – A Summary
- 5. Weather Warnings and Precautions
- 6. Looking ahead: Climate Trends and Preparedness
- 7. How many residents have been evacuated in Andalusia ahead of Storm Oriana?
- 8. Andalusia: Over 3,100 Evacuated Ahead of Storm Oriana
Andalusia, Spain, is currently grappling with widespread disruption as it awaits teh arrival of Storm Oriana, following days of intense rainfall and strong winds. Over 3,100 Residents have been evacuated as a precautionary measure, with authorities working to mitigate the impact of ongoing and potential flooding and landslides.
Evacuations and Incident Response
As of today, February 13, 2026, a total of 3,118 Individuals have been displaced across the region, according to the latest reports from emergency services. The province of Cádiz accounts for the vast majority of evacuations,with 2,581 People relocated. Málaga, Córdoba, Granada, Jaén, Huelva and Seville also report notable numbers of displaced Residents.
Recent evacuations include six Individuals removed from homes deemed structurally unsafe in Pruna, Seville.Additionally, 12 People were proactively moved from areas near the Cortes train station in Málaga, and twenty more were evacuated in Zagra and Monachil, Granada. Currently, 43 incidents are being actively managed, with expectations for that number to rise as Storm Oriana makes landfall.
Widespread Damage and Travel Disruptions
Emergency services have responded to nearly 12,000 incidents since January 27th, primarily related to falling trees, branches, and street furniture. While no personal injuries have been reported from these incidents, the sheer volume highlights the severity of the weather situation. According to the General Directorate of Traffic, 144 roads in Andalusia are affected, with 116 currently closed to traffic. Cádiz province is particularly impacted, with 37 roads impassable, followed by Granada with 24 closed routes.
Key Provincial Impacts – A Summary
| Province | Evacuated Residents | Roads Affected | Roads Closed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cádiz | 2,581 | 48 | 37 |
| Málaga | 257 | 16 | 10 |
| Granada | 108 | 39 | 24 |
| Jaén | 67 | 22 | 12 |
Weather Warnings and Precautions
The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued orange weather warnings – indicating significant danger – for all Andalusian provinces. Almería faces wind gusts up to 90 kilometers per hour, while coastal areas of Granada and Cádiz are bracing for waves up to five meters high and winds reaching 75 kilometers per hour. Orange warnings for rainfall are also in effect for Grazalema in Cádiz, anticipating up to 110 liters of rain per square metre within 12 hours and 180 liters within 24 hours.
The Alhambra in Granada has proactively closed access to its central forest due to the high winds. Landslides have also been reported in Los Villares, Jaén, affecting roadways. Authorities are urging Residents to exercise extreme caution and adhere to safety guidelines. According to the World Health Organization, advance preparation and heeding warnings are crucial during severe weather events.
Looking ahead: Climate Trends and Preparedness
Spain has experienced an increase in extreme weather events in recent years,attributed in part to climate change. A European habitat Agency report highlights rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns across the Iberian Peninsula, increasing the risk of both droughts and intense rainfall. Enhanced infrastructure resilience and proactive adaptation measures are vital to mitigating the impact of these events.
Do you think adequate resources are being allocated to infrastructure improvements in Andalusia to cope with increasingly frequent extreme weather? As climate change intensifies, what role should individual citizens play in preparing for potential disasters?
Stay tuned to Archyde.com for the latest updates on this developing situation.
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How many residents have been evacuated in Andalusia ahead of Storm Oriana?
Andalusia: Over 3,100 Evacuated Ahead of Storm Oriana
Current Situation: February 13, 2026
As of today, February 13, 2026, over 3,100 residents across Andalusia, Spain, have been evacuated as Storm Oriana intensifies and brings torrential rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous coastal conditions. The evacuations are primarily concentrated in the provinces of Málaga, Cádiz, and Huelva, areas particularly vulnerable to the storm’s predicted impact.
Affected Provinces & Evacuation Details
* Málaga: The Costa del Sol is bracing for meaningful disruption. Over 1,500 people have been evacuated from coastal towns like Nerja, Marbella, and Estepona, with concerns over potential flooding and landslides. Local authorities have activated emergency protocols, including the closure of parks and beaches.
* Cádiz: In the province of Cádiz, approximately 800 residents have been moved from low-lying areas and coastal villages.The Bay of Cádiz is experiencing high waves and strong winds, posing a threat to maritime activities.
* Huelva: Huelva province, particularly the Doñana National Park area, is facing a heightened risk of flooding due to the Guadalquivir river overflowing its banks. Around 700 evacuations have been carried out, focusing on communities near the river.
* Other Provinces: While Málaga, Cádiz, and Huelva are the most heavily impacted, alerts are in place across all eight Andalusian provinces. Seville, Córdoba, Jaén, Granada, and Almería are experiencing heavy rainfall and are on high alert for potential flooding.
Storm oriana: Key Characteristics & Forecast
Storm Oriana,classified as a ‘dana’ (Depresión Aislada en niveles altos – Isolated Depression at High Levels) – a type of atmospheric phenomenon common in the Iberian Peninsula – is characterized by a large mass of warm,humid air colliding with cooler air. This collision generates intense precipitation and strong winds.
Current forecasts predict:
- Rainfall: Accumulated rainfall could exceed 200mm in some areas within a 24-hour period, particularly in mountainous regions.
- Wind: Gusts of up to 100 km/h are expected along the coast, with inland areas experiencing winds of 70-80 km/h.
- Sea Conditions: Exceptionally high waves, reaching heights of 8-10 meters, are anticipated along the Andalusian coastline.
- Duration: The most intense phase of the storm is expected to last until February 15th, with lingering effects possible for several days afterward.
Infrastructure impacts & Travel Disruptions
The severe weather is already causing significant disruption:
* Road Closures: Numerous roads, including several national highways, have been closed due to flooding and landslides. Authorities are advising against non-essential travel.
* Rail Services: Renfe, Spain’s national rail operator, has suspended several train services in Andalusia, particularly along the coastal routes.
* Port Closures: Ports in Málaga, Algeciras, and Huelva have been closed to all maritime traffic.
* Power Outages: Localized power outages have been reported in several towns and villages,with energy companies working to restore electricity.
* School Closures: Educational institutions in affected provinces have been closed as a precautionary measure.
Emergency Response & Safety Measures
Emergency services are working around the clock to assist those affected by the storm. Key safety recommendations include:
* Heed Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue an evacuation order, comply immediately.
* Secure Property: Secure outdoor furniture, loose objects, and anything that could be blown away by the wind.
* Avoid Coastal areas: Stay away from beaches, promenades, and other coastal areas during the storm.
* Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from official sources, such as the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and local authorities.
* Avoid Driving: if possible, avoid driving during the storm. If you must drive, do so with extreme caution.
* Emergency Numbers: In case of emergency, dial 112.
Historical context: Similar storm Events in Andalusia
Andalusia has experienced severe storms in the past. In December 2021, Storm filomena caused widespread disruption across spain, including significant snowfall in Andalusia. More recently, in September 2023, the region was hit by torrential rainfall and flooding, resulting in several fatalities. These past events highlight the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather and the importance of preparedness. The lessons learned from these incidents are informing the current emergency response efforts.
Resources & Further Details
* Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET): https://www.aemet.es/
* 112 Emergency Services: 112
* Local Town Hall Websites: Check the websites of your local town hall for specific information and updates.
* Renfe (Spanish Rail): [https://www.renfe.com/](https://www.renfe.
