A devastating flood in Spain’s eastern Valencia region has left at least 95 people dead and many more missing. Rescue efforts continue, with 1,000 troops joining police and firefighters in the search for survivors.
Key Facts:
- Torrential rains dumped up to a year’s worth of rainfall in just hours.
- Valencia region worst hit, with Paiporta reporting 40 deaths.
- 200 rescues conducted on ground, 70 aerial evacuations.
- 155,000 homes without electricity, drinking water scarce.
- Three days of national mourning declared.
Rescue Efforts:
Rescuers scramble to reach stranded residents, with helicopters evacuating people from rooftops. Emergency services struggle to access affected areas due to flooded roads and destroyed infrastructure.
Reactions:
- Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: “All of Spain weeps with all of you… We won’t abandon you.”
- King Felipe VI: “Devastated” by the disaster, offering “heartfelt condolences” to families.
- EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen: Activated Copernicus satellite system to aid rescue efforts.
Climate Change Link:
Scientists warn that extreme weather events, intensified by human-induced climate change, can overwhelm existing defenses.
Investigation:
Valencia’s flood alert system under scrutiny following high death toll despite warnings of extreme rainfall.
Source: Vanguard.
