One dead, two missing in southern Spain as torrential rains cause flash floods

Torrential rains flooded Spain's southern and eastern provinces over the weekend, with one person dead and two missing on Sunday evening (December 28) as overflowing riverbeds swept away cars and motorcycles and authorities warned residents to stay indoors.

In Alhaurín el Grande search parties could be seen combing the area with Mayor Anthony Bermudez thanking authorities, volunteers and residents for their help during a 'difficult Christmas for the municipality'.

In Valencia, where deadly floods in October last year killed over 220 people and caused billions of euros in damage, authorities issued red alert warnings to people's phones on Sunday evening urging them to stay indoors and on high ground.

Eight other provinces were on orange alert, warning citizens of serious risks to themselves or property and to be prepared for worsening conditions.

The heavy rains in Valencia last year caught authorities off guard, with many blaming local and national officials for warning people of the danger too late, eventually prompting the leader of the region to resign.

Production: Victoria Waldersee, Miguel Gutierrez/Reuters