Gloria's passage, a blow to Dénia: the graphic memories after 5 years of the destructive storm

El temporary glory The storm that hit Dénia in January 2020 is remembered as one of the most destructive meteorological phenomena in recent years in the city. This episode of heavy rain, winds and storms left significant consequences in the municipality and the region, especially in coastal areas. beaches, like that of Les Deveses, were the most affected, with a loss of sand that reduced the size of the coastline and caused damage to nearby infrastructure. During the passage of Gloria, the waves reached five metres and in some areas, the water invaded homes and businesses. The image of the Dénia coastline changed drastically: tons of sand were lost, affecting accessibility to the beach and damaging promenades.

The Marineta walk after the Gloria passed through Dénia

In the previous days, Dénia had seen partly cloudy skies, which foreshadowed the impact of the storm. By January 20, the conditions worsened with heavy rains that caused flooding and the waves to reach inland without obstacles.

Clean-up and recovery began quickly, with intensive operations that managed to restore the city in record time, but the process of recovering the beaches remains a constant challenge. Beyond the material damage and economic losses, Gloria's footprint also left a reflection on resilience and preparation for this type of event.

Five years later: Gloria's footprint

Five years after Gloria, Dénia is still looking for ways to prevent the effects of other such severe storms from happening again on the coast. Meteorology and urban planning specialists insist on the need to strengthen coastal infrastructure and develop strategies that optimise natural resources, reducing erosion on beaches and improving flood defences.

Despite restoration efforts and the subsequent improvement in the situation in the Dénia beaches, there is still concern about the vulnerability of the coasts to meteorological phenomena of similar magnitude. The commitment to a model of sustainability and regeneration of the coast has become a priority for both the local administration and the residents of the city, who were directly affected by the violence of Gloria.