Thousands evacuated as parts of Spain hit with nearly a month's rainfall in one hour
Downpours cause flash floods and landslides
At least one person has died after torrential rain battered parts of south-eastern Spain, causing flash floods and landslides.
The extreme weather, which began on Tuesday afternoon, has forced thousands of people to evacuate their homes in the Murcia and Almería regions.
The regional government of Murcia said in a statement that the rainfall had reached 100 litres per square metre in just one hour in some areas - nearly a month's worth of rain.
The heavy rain has caused widespread flooding, with cars being swept away by the fast-flowing water.
Several roads have been closed due to flooding and landslides, including the A-7 motorway, which connects Murcia to Almería.
The mayor of Murcia, José Antonio Serrano, has described the situation as "critical" and has urged people to stay indoors.
The rain is expected to continue throughout the night, and the Spanish meteorological agency, AEMET, has issued a red alert for the Murcia region.
One person killed in flash flooding
At least one person has died in the flash flooding in Spain, according to the regional government of Murcia.
The victim, a 61-year-old man, was found dead in his car in the town of Los Alcázares.
The man's car was swept away by the floodwaters, and his body was found inside the vehicle.
Thousands evacuated from their homes
Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes in the Murcia and Almería regions due to the flooding.
The regional government of Murcia has set up emergency shelters for those who have been forced to leave their homes.
The Spanish Red Cross is also providing assistance to those affected by the flooding.
Roads closed due to flooding and landslides
Several roads have been closed due to flooding and landslides, including the A-7 motorway, which connects Murcia to Almería.
The regional government of Murcia is advising people to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
The Spanish traffic authority, the DGT, is providing updates on road closures on its website.
Red alert issued for Murcia region
The Spanish meteorological agency, AEMET, has issued a red alert for the Murcia region.
A red alert is the highest level of warning, and it means that there is a high risk of extreme weather.
AEMET is urging people in the Murcia region to stay indoors and to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
