A nine-year-old girl died and a 24-year-old woman was seriously injured after falling rocks struck them while they were swimming at the Fontcalda thermal baths in Tarragona, northeastern Spain. The incident occurred Tuesday when a landslide sent large rocks crashing into the natural hot springs.
The victims were in one of the deeper pools when rocks dislodged from a side wall of the gorge. Emergency services, including firefighters and medical personnel, responded to the scene. A helicopter was used to evacuate the injured woman, who was taken to the University Hospital of Tarragona Joan XXIII in serious condition. The body of the deceased girl was recovered by regional police after an investigation team granted approval.
The Fontcalda thermal baths are a well-known natural beauty spot, popular with both locals and tourists. The area is situated between mountains, and falling rocks are recognized as a significant hazard, particularly during periods of high visitor activity.
Psychologists were present to support bathers who witnessed the accident, as well as the deceased girl's family. The local council has expressed its condolences and declared two days of mourning.
Authorities are reminding the public about the inherent risks associated with swimming in natural pools and being near rock formations, especially in mountainous environments. The nationalities of the victims and their relationship to each other have not yet been released.