A major new flood defence system is being developed to help the Costa Blanca cope with any extreme weather in the future.

Following the serious flooding which hit the region in October, the Jucar Water Confederation (CHJ) has announced that a study into the best method of protecting Costa Blanca property from flood damage has begun.

The plan will focus on the Marinas Alta and Baja and will involve the careful coordination of local, regional and state authorities, Costa Blanca News reports.

Juan José Moragues, president of the CHJ, said that the plan would be similar to that which was used in response to the La Safor disaster in Valencia in the late 1980s.

Many towns in the north Costa Blanca were recently affected by flooding, in a region usually known for an ideal climate that brings tourists to its shores all year round.

The weather in the region has since returned to type - ThinkSpain.com recently reported that the Alicante area is enjoying a winter heat-wave, with temperatures peaking at 20 degrees C.

According to a report from Typically Spanish, the Costa Blanca has recently become the most popular domestic holiday destination for Spanish people.