**Spain on High Alert for Severe Weather as Torrential Rains Approach**

Residents prepare as meteorological warnings signal potential storms could lead to dangerous conditions across multiple areas.

As Spain continues its recovery from devastating flash floods, the nation braces for a new wave of torrential rain as a second "Dana" weather system moves towards the Mediterranean coast. Just weeks after the catastrophic inundation that resulted in 222 confirmed deaths and 23 individuals still missing, the country faces another meteorological challenge.

Spain's meteorological agency, Aemet, has issued an orange alert — the second-highest warning level — for regions including Valencia, Catalonia, Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands, indicating imminent and serious weather conditions with a degree of danger for daily activities. Forecasts predict very strong to torrential rainfall, particularly affecting the eastern and southern Mediterranean zones.

In response to the anticipated storms, municipalities in Valencia are taking precautions, including the suspension of school classes and outdoor activities. Sandbags have been deployed in Aldaia to protect the town's center from flooding. Audio warnings from military vehicles remind residents to stay alert to the potential for increased rainfall and the dangers posed by torrent flows.

Although this incoming Dana weather system is predicted to be less intense than the previous month's disaster, heavy rainfall has already affected some regions, such as Almería in Andalusia, where flooding temporarily disrupted the A7 motorway. Emergency services acted promptly to rescue individuals trapped by rising waters.

Authorities are urging caution, advising residents in orange-alert areas to steer clear of riverbeds and creeks, as conditions can change rapidly, even in dry conditions. The national traffic office has also recommended increased vigilance while traveling.

King Felipe VI is set to oversee ongoing rescue and recovery efforts at a military base in Bétera, following his previous encounters with public dissent during visits to flood-stricken areas, particularly in Paiporta where frustration over the government’s response has escalated.

While Dana systems typically occur several times a year in Spain, this latest severe weather front signals a pressing need for preparedness as the forecast indicates potential rainfall amounting to two months’ worth in just a few days, particularly for areas around Malaga and Granada. The onset of winter storm conditions is also anticipated, bringing the first significant snowfall to the country’s mountain ranges.