VIDEO: 200 people evacuated as mudslide hits Sierra Nevada ski slopes in Andalucía
A sudden mudslide engulfed several ski slopes in Andalucía's Sierra Nevada this morning (Monday), leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Fortunately, no personal injuries were reported as the ski station had already been closed due to adverse weather conditions. Shocking images depict the relentless flow of mud along El Río slopes, reaching as far as Pradollano, as reported by the Spanish newspaper Ideal.
Cetursa, the ski resort operator, attributed the incident to a deluge of rain since Sunday afternoon, coupled with elevated temperatures. The Morón glacier, situated in the Cauchiles-Parador area to the south, unleashed a torrent of water, snow, and mud, impacting the Maribel and Zaragatillo slopes, along with the final section of El Río and the Mirlo Blanco activities complex.
Approximately 200 people, including numerous children, experienced moments of anxiety as they were evacuated. Collaborative efforts between the Guardia Civil and Cetursa, successfully transported visitors to the parking area, navigating through the convergence of three or four local rivers in the leisure zone.
With extreme weather conditions prevailing, the ski resort remained closed today, ensuring the absence of skiers on the slopes during the incident. The broader ski resort infrastructure also bore the brunt of the rain. Operators will embark on efforts to restore and recondition the tracks once the storm subsides. The ski station is expected to provide updates on tomorrow's forecast later in the day.