Three Ukrainian nationals were rescued late on Wednesday night after their BMW became trapped in the Rio Verde in Marbella, having deliberately driven past flood barriers and entered a restricted area.
The vehicle breached security seals and barriers installed by the Marbella Local Police and Marbella Civil Protection, before becoming stuck in the riverbed amid rising water levels.
The Marbella Fire Department carried out what authorities described as a swift and coordinated rescue, despite difficult conditions and a real risk to the safety of emergency crews.
All three occupants were brought to safety.
The driver has since been sanctioned and faces a substantial fine for disobeying an official seal and creating a situation of serious danger.
Marbella City Council highlighted the importance of recent hydraulic works and the ongoing cleaning and maintenance of streams, which helped prevent more serious flooding, at least overnight.
Keeping waterways clear allows rainwater from both Marbella and inland municipalities to flow normally, easing pressure on the urban drainage system.
Despite the relatively limited impact, the council is keeping a special emergency plan active, ensuring rapid response capability should conditions worsen.
