At least one person has drowned and thousands are being evacuated in the southern Spanish city of Malaga, after heavy rains unleashed floods Friday.

The government issued a red alert for the area due to floods.

Rescue workers are doing what they can to contain the damage.

Residents say their fears grew as the rains intensified, flooding homes and neighborhoods.

(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) UNIDENTIFIED FLOOD VICTIM SAYING:

"From seven it got stronger, and when I looked out my bedroom window I saw the cars floating past, so we went to the second floor because the water was up to the window."

Authorities say more rain is on the way.