Madrid: Spain is reeling from catastrophic flash floods that have claimed the lives of at least 205 people, devastated infrastructure, and left thousands missing across regions like Valencia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Andalusia.
Heavy rains on Tuesday night, with rainfall surpassing 400 liters per square meter in many areas and even reaching 600 liters in some, overwhelmed the parched ground, leading to deadly torrents. Social media videos captured the terrifying scene of torrents up to three meters high sweeping cars, tearing down bridges, and collapsing railway tunnels. People were forced onto rooftops and vehicles to escape, but tragically, many couldn’t be saved.
Rising Death Toll and Missing Persons
The official death toll, initially reported as 12, skyrocketed to 205, with 202 fatalities in Valencia, two in Castilla-La Mancha, and one in Andalusia. With over 1,900 people still missing, the death toll is feared to rise further. Heart-wrenching stories are emerging of loved ones making final calls from cars trapped in floodwaters, and others losing their lives while attempting to retrieve vehicles from garages.
Widespread Damage and Power Outages
The floods disrupted power to over 130,000 homes, and as of Friday, 23,000 homes remain without electricity, according to power company Iberdrola. Infrastructure damage is extensive, with 80 km of local rail lines, 100 roads, and Valencia’s high-speed rail link to Madrid severely impacted. The Spanish government allocated €25 million ($27 million) for emergency repairs to reconnect the affected regions.
National Response and Relief Efforts
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the flood-hit areas on Thursday, pledging full government support for recovery. The government declared three days of national mourning, while nearly 2,000 military personnel, supported by 400 vehicles and 15 helicopters, have been mobilized for rescue and recovery. Local volunteers in Valencia have been tirelessly working to clear mud and debris from streets and homes. However, police report that 60 people have been detained for looting in the aftermath of the disaster.
Ongoing Risk and International Support
As Spain continues to grapple with the devastation, Valencia and nearby regions remain on high alert for further downpours, with warnings issued for Huelva, Castellon, Mallorca, and Catalonia. Relief efforts are underway, with funds from the Red Cross and assistance from the European Union and other international organizations.
This flood, one of the deadliest in Spain’s recent history, has left a deep impact, with Spain mourning the lives lost and bracing for a long road to recovery.
