DANA 'Alice' Unleashes Heavy Rains Across Eastern Spain and Balearic Islands

Intense Rainfall and Warnings Issued

The DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) named 'Alice' has commenced its impact across eastern Spain and the Balearic Islands, bringing with it very heavy and persistent rainfall. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issued warnings for a 'situation of high potential danger' due to the intensity and persistence of showers, which could lead to sudden flooding in low-lying areas and streams. This weather phenomenon, the first DANA of the 2025-2026 season to be officially named, is expected to last from Wednesday evening, October 8, 2025, until at least Sunday, October 12, 2025.

AEMET has activated orange alerts for coastal areas of the Valencian Community, specifically Valencia and Alicante provinces, where rainfall could exceed 40 litres per square metre in an hour. Some forecasts indicate that certain areas, particularly around Valencia, Alicante, and Murcia, could experience up to 100 litres per square metre in four hours. Red warnings have been issued for Friday, October 10, for the Murcia and Alicante coasts, with predictions of up to 60 litres per square metre in one hour and a staggering 180 litres per square metre over twelve hours.

Regional Impacts and Suspensions

The heavy rains have already led to significant disruptions. In the Balearic Islands, Ibiza and Formentera suspended classes on Thursday, October 9, in anticipation of the severe weather. In the Region of Murcia, the regional government took the decision to suspend classes in educational and social centres across Campo de Cartagena and Mazarrón for Friday, October 10, due to the red alert.

The Valencian Community has also felt the immediate effects of DANA 'Alice'. Incidents such as waterlogging and tree falls have been reported. Furthermore, events planned for Thursday, October 9, coinciding with Valencian Community Day, faced postponement or cancellation. Initial rainfall figures show L'Albufera de Valencia recording 50 litres per square metre and Catarroja registering 39.8 litres per square metre.

Understanding DANA 'Alice'

A DANA, or Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos, is an isolated pocket of cold air at high altitude. When this system interacts with warm, humid air from the Mediterranean Sea, it can trigger extreme weather events including torrential rain, thunderstorms, and hail. The decision to name high-impact DANAs, such as 'Alice,' is part of a new initiative by AEMET and other European meteorological agencies to enhance public awareness and improve communication regarding severe weather risks.

AEMET spokesperson Ruben Del Campo emphasized the 'high potential danger' of this DANA, noting that the intensity and persistence of the showers could lead to flash floods. The agency advises residents to exercise caution and stay updated with official alerts, as there is still high uncertainty regarding the precise trajectory and interaction of DANA 'Alice' with surface flows, which will determine the most affected areas each day.