Severe Flooding in Eastern Spain After Torrential Rains
Valencia and Surrounding Regions Face Destruction and Crisis Response
In the eastern region of Valencia, Spain, torrential rains have resulted in devastating flash floods, leading to the recovery of several bodies by emergency services.
Carlos Mazon, head of the regional government, confirmed the fatalities on Wednesday but withheld further details pending notification of families.
The heavy rains struck on Tuesday, significantly impacting eastern and southern Spain, flooding streets with muddy water, and causing disruptions to both rail and air travel.
Smartphones captured and Spanish TV broadcasted images of the floodwaters, which swept away vehicles and inundated buildings.
In total, at least seven individuals are missing: a truck driver in Valencia and six people in Letur, Albacete.
Extensive search efforts involving emergency workers and drones continue, as emphasized by Milagros Tolon, representative for Castilla-La Mancha, on TVE.
A crisis committee was convened by the Spanish central government on Tuesday night to manage the response.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his concerns on social media, advising the public to stay safe and heed official guidance.
Valencia has suspended school classes, sports events, and closed parks.
Twelve flights scheduled to land at Valencia airport were diverted, and ten more were canceled, as per airport operator Aena.
ADIF, the rail infrastructure operator, halted all services in the region, including high-speed trains between Madrid and Valencia, affecting passengers until at least 10 am on Wednesday.
In Andalusia, a high-speed train derailed with 276 passengers on board; fortunately, there were no injuries.
Emergency services conducted rescues in Alora, Andalusia, where a river overflowed, using helicopters to assist some residents.
The state weather agency AEMET issued a red alert for Valencia and a high-alert for parts of Andalusia.
Flooding caused road closures in multiple areas.
Scientists note increased intensity in extreme weather, such as these storms, as a consequence of climate change.