The intense rains of recent days have left their mark on several rivers in Catalonia and one of the most affected today is the Francolí River. The images shared by Protecció Civil on Twitter show the shocking state of this river, almost overflowing and with a flow that occupies a large part of its banks. In their message, the authorities have called for caution, recalling that, although the alert level has decreased slightly, the risk remains significant. In situations of intense rain, rivers and ravines can become highly dangerous areas, and the population is recommended to stay away from their surroundings.
The Civil Protection tweet specifically warns about the hydrological risk in the Francolí, highlighting the need to take extreme precautions. The accumulated rains have increased the flow of the river, and although a slight drop in the alert level has been recorded, any increase in precipitation could overflow it again, putting both people and nearby infrastructure at risk. Protecció Civil has been clear in its recommendation: do not approach the river bank or other flood-prone areas, as the rapid currents and water level can be deceptive and dangerous.
The overflowing of rivers and ravines during times of torrential rains represent a real danger to the safety of citizens.. The force of the water can drag vehicles, objects and people, as we have seen in other locations, which makes these places high-risk areas. In climate emergency situations like this, it is essential that the population follow the instructions of the authorities, since landslides and landslides can occur at any time, especially in areas with unstable terrain or steep slopes. Even seemingly safe structures, such as bridges or roads near the river, can give way to the force of the current if the flow continues to increase.
The Catalan Water Agency (ACA) has also been closely monitoring the situation in the main rivers of Catalonia and has issued several hydrological risk warnings. The Francolí is one of the rivers that has received special attention due to its ability to accumulate water quickly and the risks that this entails. Heavy rain can saturate the ground and cause water to move more quickly, increasing the possibility of overflows and, in some cases, landslides. These types of phenomena are especially dangerous in rural areas and in urban areas near rivers, where infrastructure is not always prepared to withstand these flows.
High alert
The recommendation not to go near the llera or the riverbed is especially important at times when the rains have created unpredictable conditions. On many occasions, the water may appear calm on the surface, but in reality it carries strong currents underneath, capable of knocking a person over in seconds. The ACA and Civil Protection have insisted that all caution is insufficient when it comes to avoiding accidents in these areas.
This notice is part of the emergency protocol activated in Catalonia. Coordination between the ACA, Civil Protection and emergency services is essential to guarantee security and carry out rescue and assistance work when necessary. Prevention and preparation for hydrological risk situations are key, since they minimize damage and protect the population from the dangers associated with floods.
Civil Protection has sent alerts to the inhabitants of several towns in Baix Llobregat, Barcelonès and Garraf due to the intense rains. Flooding is already occurring on some roads and highways in the area.
