Extreme rainfall refers to an unusually high amount of precipitation that occurs over a short period of time or within a specific event. This phenomenon can lead to severe weather conditions, including flash floods, landslides, and significant disruptions to infrastructure and ecosystems. Extreme rainfall is typically defined by how it exceeds historical averages for a given location, often categorized by specific intensity thresholds, such as inches or millimeters per hour. The occurrence of extreme rainfall is influenced by various factors, including climatic patterns, geographical features, and atmospheric conditions, and has become increasingly concerning in the context of climate change, as shifting weather patterns may lead to more frequent and intense rainfall events in certain regions.
Torrential rains in Madrid's outskirts have prompted the closure of major highways M-611 and M-637, halting traffic to prevent landslides and flooding. Rivers, including the Lozoya, Henares, and Tajuña, are…