A flash flood and landslide caused by torrential rain killed two elderly women, aged about 60 and 80, in the rural village of Manzanedo de Valdueza, in northwestern Spain on August 15, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Two babies were also injured and treated for bruises following the disaster [1, 2, 3, 4]. A man in his 80s reported missing after the flood was later found unharmed [1].
The extreme weather struck during a public holiday amid ongoing unusual weather patterns in Spain, which had faced record heatwaves and wildfires in 2025 [1, 2]. Marco Morala, mayor of nearby Ponferrada, said "fierce storms in the hills triggered a large flow of stones, mud and sludge," referring to the landslide that caused damage in multiple areas including the village of Bouzas [1].
On August 16, seven regions in central and northern Spain were placed under yellow alert for storms and heavy rain, as authorities warned of continued severe weather following the flood and landslide [2, 3, 4]. Authorities are monitoring conditions closely to prevent further casualties and property damage.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges from extreme weather in parts of Spain. Rescue and recovery efforts continue in the affected rural areas as emergency services respond to the storm impacts. Authorities have urged residents to stay alert and take precautions amid the heightened risk.
Weather officials are expected to update the storm alerts and forecasts later today, as the region braces for more rain and possible further flooding.
