But deluge brings relief from summer heatwave
Torrential rain and flash floods have brought a dramatic end to one of the most intense heatwaves Spain has seen in recent years.
Television reports have shown water cascading through the streets of Barcelona following downpours, hailstones and tornados. Electrical services have been hit in many northern and eastern parts of the country, while public transport has also been hit by flash flooding and strong winds.
The change in the weather comes after much of the country saw its highest temperatures for many years, and mercury levels dropped by as much as 10 degrees Celcius on Sunday as the rain moved in.
However, forecasters predict the high temperatures are likely to return to many parts of Spain before the end of the week.
