Málaga Faces Unprecedented Rainfall: A Deep Dive into the Downpour
Málaga, a province known for its sunny skies and Mediterranean climate, is currently grappling with an extraordinary weather phenomenon. For the past three weeks, the region has been experiencing relentless rainfall, transforming the landscape and disrupting the daily lives of its residents. According to Nacho Sánchez (2025), writing for El País, this prolonged period of precipitation is unprecedented, marking a significant departure from the region’s typical climate.
The Impact on Daily Life
The consistent rainfall is causing widespread disruption. As Sánchez (2025) notes, the actor Miguel Ángel Martín humorously depicted the scene by describing balconies adorned with laundry as residents rushed to take advantage of brief sunny spells. The local infrastructure, accustomed to drier conditions, is struggling to cope with the deluge. Roads are flooded, and there have been numerous landslides, leading to travel delays and hazardous conditions. The Emergency services have responded to almost 800 incidents, mainly due to the water accumulating on the public roads, landslides, and damages to several roads. Málaga is struggling to handle the unseasonal weather.
Rivers Swell, Flooding Threatens
The increased rainfall is causing rivers to swell, leading to significant flooding in several areas. The Guadalhorce River, for instance, has reached its highest level since records began, inundating surrounding municipalities such as Álora, Cártama, and Málaga. In Doña Ana, residents are battling floodwaters that have risen up to a meter in their streets. Encarna Pacheco, a resident of Doña Ana, told El País: «We already had the pumping equipment prepared». Also, Miguel Santos said: «We already know what we have to do». These communities are very prepared when the disaster comes. The situation is particularly dire for the 400 families who were ordered to evacuate due to the rising waters of the Campanillas River.
Agricultural Sector Finds Relief
Amidst the chaos, there is a silver lining for the agricultural sector. The prolonged rainfall has significantly boosted water reserves in the region’s reservoirs. According to El País (2025), the reservoirs have nearly doubled their capacity in the last three weeks, increasing from 171 cubic hectometers to 332 cubic hectometers. They now exceed 54% of their capacity, which is triple the amount from last year. Álvaro Palacios, president of the Spanish Association of Tropicals, stated that the water reserves «give hope to resurge» to the mango and avocado sector. This is really good news for the crop sector. It also alleviates the concerns about water shortages that plagued the region in the past.
A Shift in Perspective
The persistent rain has prompted a shift in perspective among the residents of Málaga. Just weeks ago, the primary concern was the lack of water due to the drought. Now, the conversation revolves around when the rain will finally cease. According to Loli Rodríguez, a 40-year-old resident: «This is not our thing. It's a pain to get wet, it gives you a downer and plans are canceled» (N. Sánchez, 2025). The constant downpour is affecting the mood of the population.
Economic Impact on Local Businesses
The inclement weather is also impacting local businesses, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Enrique Murillo, the owner of Las Palmeras restaurant, on the beach, notes that his establishment loses about twenty reservations every weekend and the billing descends to a half every time it rains. However, he also added that «Luckily people are already getting used to it and starting to go out» (N. Sánchez, 2025). The local companies are trying to adapt and reinvent themselves to deal with the current climate conditions.
Looking Ahead
As Málaga continues to grapple with the unprecedented rainfall, the focus is on managing the immediate consequences and preparing for the future. According to Jesús Riesco, the chief of Aemet in Málaga, «At this time of year we are above normal values throughout the province» (N. Sánchez, 2025). This is a fact that all the population is aware of. Roberto Granda, a meteorologist, emphasizes that Málaga is experiencing «an exceptional situation because it has lasted a long time». This is why the population feels really affected.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, providing assistance to affected communities, and working to repair damaged infrastructure. Meanwhile, residents are hoping for a return to the sunny weather that defines the region, while remaining mindful of the importance of water conservation and sustainable practices.
