In the wake of relentless rains and severe flooding emergency responders in Spain’s Valencia region have recovered multiple bodies, regional head Carlos Mazon announced Wednesday. Heavy downpours on Tuesday inundated much of eastern and southern Spain, causing flash floods that swept away cars, disrupted travel, and tragically claimed lives. Mazon stated that more information will be provided once families of the deceased are notified.
In just 48 hours, approximately 300 mm of rain fell, overwhelming the Mediterranean region and transforming streets into rivers. Video footage broadcast on Spanish TV captured cars being dragged through torrents and water pouring into homes. Currently, at least seven people are missing, including a truck driver from Valencia and six people in Letur, Albacete province. Emergency crews, aided by drones, have committed to an overnight search for the missing, said Milagros Tolon, the government’s representative in Castilla-La Mancha.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed concern, urging people to heed safety warnings. Authorities have responded by establishing a crisis committee to oversee storm relief and safety efforts. Valencia’s city officials have suspended school classes, sporting events, and park activities for Wednesday. Twelve flights scheduled to land in Valencia were redirected, while ten others were canceled. Rail operator ADIF also announced a halt on all rail services in the Valencia area, including high-speed trains to Madrid, pending safety inspections.
In Andalusia, flooding caused a high-speed train with 276 passengers to derail, though fortunately, no injuries were reported. Rescues are ongoing in the Andalusian town of Alora, where helicopters have been deployed to evacuate people from flood-stricken areas.
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued red alerts for Valencia and surrounding areas, with a high-level alert also in place in Andalusia. As climate change continues to intensify weather patterns, scientists caution that the frequency and severity of storms like these are likely to increase.
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