Popular beaches in Spain are facing an alarming rat infestation, frightening tourists and locals. Reports of rats the size of cats and dozens of dead rats washing ashore have sparked concerns about sanitation and the impact on Spain's vital tourism industry.

At Fuengirola beach, southwest of Malaga, videos taken on 17/6 show large rats scurrying across the sand. One person even saw a large rat emerge from under a walkway, causing them to scream in fright.

A beach in Alicante. Photo: Kayak

A beach in Alicante. Photo: Kayak

Local resident Susan stated that rats are not a new sight at the resort, often seen running between shops in the town center during the day and appearing in large numbers on the beach at night. Another local, Joha, revealed that the rats at dawn are even larger than those depicted in videos circulating on social media.

Similarly, at Costa Blanca in Alicante in mid-May, dozens of dead rats were found floating in the sea and washed up on the sand at Coco, Urbanova beaches, and near the Real Club de Regatas sailing school. Reports indicate that heavy rainfall prior to the incident caused a "temporary collapse" in the sewage system, flushing waste and dead rats out to sea.

This incident coincided with the Alicante Triathlon, with over 1,200 participants, raising further concerns about sanitation.

Dead rats washed up on the sand in Spain. Photo: Express

Dead rats washed up on the sand in Spain. Photo: Express

Trini Amoros, a representative of the Alicante City Council, stressed the unacceptability of rats floating on the beach and dunes. She believes this situation reflects a lack of hygiene, rat control, and sewage system maintenance. Another opposition councilor also condemned the sewage system's issues, with untreated wastewater spilling into the sea.

According to Aguas de Alicante, the company that manages the water cycle in Alicante, over 1,000 tons of wet wipes are improperly flushed down the drains each year, clogging public and private sewage systems, especially during bad weather. The heavy rain in Alicante recorded over 40 liters of water per square meter in an hour, exacerbating the problem. Officials believe the overloaded sewage system is the main cause of dead rats washing out to sea.

In Benalmadena, near Fuengirola, another incident occurred on 16/6 when the seawater turned an alarming brown color, prompting the local council to raise yellow warning flags. This incident was attributed to a burst water pipe, but officials assured the public that it posed no health risks.

The rat-related incidents in Spain have raised concerns about the country's tourism image. Critics argue that the lack of investment in sanitation infrastructure and pest control is damaging popular destinations. With the peak tourist season approaching, local authorities are under pressure to act swiftly to address the issue and restore tourist confidence.

Hoai Anh