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Residents of Grazalema, in the Cádiz province remain out of their homes on Thursday February 12 as scientific teams continue working to determine when it will be safe for the town to reopen.

 

The evacuation, described as a preventive measure, was carried out last Thursday afternoon after fears that the ground beneath the village had become dangerously unstable following exceptional rainfall. The entire town was evacuated after record rain raised concerns about unstable ground. Now, the focus is firmly on when people can return.

 

In a message shared on social media, the Ayuntamiento said scientists and technicians are still in the municipality to ensure “a safe return”. “We are aware that all our residents are wondering when they can return to Grazalema, and we want you to know that scientists and technicians continue working in our town to guarantee a safe return,” the statement read. It added that science and knowledge are “at the service of safety” and encouraged neighbours directly, saying: “You must keep your spirits up.”

 

Images released this week show specialists from the Spanish Geological and Mining Institute, alongside mayor Carlos Javier García, inspecting affected areas. Technical checks are continuing, and there is still no official date for residents to move back permanently.

 

On the day of the evacuation, regional president Juanma Moreno warned it would be “very difficult” for residents to return for “six or seven days”. The mayor has since said it would not be possible “in less than a week” and stressed that “it would be premature to give a timeframe” until studies are complete.

 

The concern centres on the town’s limestone subsoil and a saturated aquifer covering 18 square kilometres. After more than ten days of intense rainfall, close to 1,500 litres per square metre, underground pressure increased significantly. Experts are now analysing water flows, spring discharge and any land movement, including through drone flights.

 

Researcher Juanjo Durán said the risk of the entire town collapsing is “negligible” and that “we are not facing a scenario of widespread collapse”. However, small, localised sinkholes could occur as water levels fall and pressure changes.

 

Meanwhile, 191 residents were allowed back briefly on Sunday morning, accompanied by the Guardia Civil, to collect belongings and care for pets.

 

For now, Grazalema waits, watching each inspection and report closely, hoping for the moment when home becomes safe again.

 

 

Image: Guardia Civil