Transport disruptions and weather alerts in Catalonia

The Catalan commuter rail network, Rodalies de Catalunya, experienced significant disruption following a solar eclipse on August 12. Travelers opting for public transport to avoid highway congestion led to heavy overcrowding at stations and platforms.

In Tarragona, authorities were forced to close and regulate station access to manage the influx of people. Reports indicated train delays of nearly 50 minutes. Francisco Cárdenas, representing the UGT union for the Renfe Group, stated that “no special operational device was prepared,” suggesting that a lack of available rolling stock may have prevented the deployment of additional services.

In addition to transport issues, Protecció Civil activated the INUNCAT alert plan due to forecasts of extreme rainfall. Meteorologists warned that precipitation could exceed 40 liters per square meter within 30 minutes in regions including Central Catalonia, Camp de Tarragona, and Terres de l’Ebre. Authorities advised citizens to avoid flood-prone areas, rivers, and underground passages.

Recent reports indicate that the logistical challenges extended to road networks, with massive crowds causing 20-kilometer traffic jams on the AP-7 highway. Meteorological concerns have also expanded, as the Balearic Islands have entered a pre-alert phase for flood risks, with experts linking increased weather volatility to rising Mediterranean sea temperatures.

Following the event, the Catalan Government defended its management of the rail service. While critics pointed to a lack of strategic mobility planning, the Department of Territory claimed the railway device was prepared in advance, including increased capacity on lines R15 and R16. Officials attributed the overcrowding to a signaling issue near Castelldefels and passenger concentrations that the system “could not adequately absorb.” The government also addressed reports regarding the director, Òscar Playà, stating he “maintained contact with operational managers and participated in decision-making” despite being on vacation.