Last week, torrential rain in Alicante overwhelmed the city’s sewage system, leading to significant overflow problems. This resulted in unsettling discoveries for beachgoers, with dozens of dead rats spotted on Cocó Beach, Urbanova Beach, and near the Real Club de Regatas. The incident raised alarms during the Alicante Triathlon, causing distress among participants and spectators alike.

The heavy downpour on May fourteenth brought over forty litres of rain per square metre within just an hour, revealing major flaws in Alicante’s drainage systems. Local officials have highlighted the ongoing issue of inappropriate waste being flushed, contributing to blockages and exacerbating the overflow situation.

Trini Amorós, deputy spokesperson for the Socialist group on the city council, has voiced her concerns, calling the rat sightings a clear indicator of poor sanitation maintenance. She stressed the negative impact on both public health and Alicante’s reputation as a tourist destination, urging the regional government for immediate action.

As the city grapples with this issue, the local water company, Aguas de Alicante, reported that over a thousand tonnes of wipes are removed from the sewage system each year. Officials and residents alike are now demanding urgent measures to prevent future occurrences and protect Alicante’s beaches.