The Caballeros or Hundidero dam in Montejaque, Málaga has reached a critical water level that prompted the activation of its spillways, which had not been used for years. The dam, which had been empty, has filled rapidly owing to the heavy rainfall in the past weeks. This situation raised alarms among local residents, especially with new rain forecasts, which could have led to dangerous flooding in the area where the ground is already saturated.

Local authorities expressed relief at the activation of the spillways, alleviating fears concerning the dam’s functionality. The Andalusian government representative in Málaga, Patricia Navarro, took to social media to announce that the dam, previously deemed a failure by some, has proven to work effectively under pressure. The activation serves as a crucial safety measure for both the structure and the nearby community, providing reassurance to residents previously at risk of evacuation.

Overall, the situation highlights the importance of modern infrastructural resilience in the face of extreme weather patterns exacerbated by climate change. As dams and other water management systems face unprecedented challenges, the case in Montejaque serves as both a warning and a case study on necessary measures to safeguard communities, especially in flood-prone areas.