An unprecedented flood
The province of Seville has witnessed a historic event due to the passage of Storm Nelson. It has been years since we have seen such a rainy Holy Week or such extraordinary floods as the one that occurred this morning in San Nicolás del Puerto. According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), in the last 12 hours nearly 100 liters per square meter have been recorded in this Sevillian town of barely 600 inhabitants, located in the heart of Sierra Morena.
The mayor of San Nicolás del Puerto, Juan Carlos Navarro, describes this flood as one of the most significant in the history of the municipality, comparable to the one that occurred 18 years ago. Although the entrance to the town has been blocked and numerous homes have been affected, fortunately no personal injuries have been reported. However, material damage will be assessed once the flood levels decrease.
The overflow of the Galindón River
The images shared by neighbors on social networks show the magnitude of the flooding of the Galindón River. The mayor of San Nicolás del Puerto attributes this flood to the 158 liters per square meter registered in the last 24 hours, added to the water accumulated in previous days. In addition to the intense rain, the territorial delegate of the AEMET in Andalusia, Juan de Dios del Pino, explains that the location of the municipality, on the banks of a river, has contributed to the accumulation of water from mountainous areas.
The Sierra Norte of Seville has been the area most affected by intense rainfall, surpassing other areas of the province. The roads have suffered various incidents due to rain and wind, which has made mobility difficult in the Sierra Morena region.
Other affected municipalities
In addition to San Nicolás del Puerto, other municipalities have been affected by floods and landslides. The SE-7102 highway in San Nicolás del Puerto and the SE-5405 highway between kilometer points 17 and 19 in Castilblanco de los Arroyos have been closed to traffic. Likewise, flooding has been reported on the A-432 regional highway in El Pedroso and on the SE-3410 highway in Gerena.
Support for those affected
Given the damage caused by the storm, the residents of San Nicolás del Puerto have had the collaboration of the Seville fire brigade consortium. The mayor appreciates the support provided by the Provincial Council since the beginning of the emergency. As the flood subsides, residents will be able to assess property damage and begin recovery.
The historic flood in the Sierra Norte of Seville has left a mark on Holy Week 2024, reminding us of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events.