At least 95 people have tragically lost their lives after severe flash floods wreaked havoc across Spain, with dozens more feared missing as emergency teams race against time to provide aid and rescue survivors. The catastrophic floods, which have devastated the southern and eastern parts of the country, are considered the worst in decades, marking a grim chapter in Spain’s history.
Deadly Storm Hits Valencia, Castile-La-Mancha, and Andalusia
The hardest-hit region, Valencia, recorded 92 fatalities, as confirmed by Spain’s Minister of Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, Angel Victor Torres. Two other deaths were reported in Castile-La-Mancha, and one in Andalusia. The unprecedented rainfall, which reached up to 12 inches in just a few hours on Tuesday, caused widespread destruction, especially in Valencia, where it marked the heaviest downpour in 28 years, according to Spain’s national weather agency AEMET.
Desperate Search for Missing People and Damaging Floods
As emergency responders scramble to rescue those still trapped, several areas, including Valencia, Castile-La-Mancha, and the city of Malaga, are facing extreme challenges. Over 1,200 people are thought to be trapped on highways, and approximately 5,000 vehicles remain stranded, according to Spain’s Guardia Civil. Footage from rescue teams shows entire streets submerged, with people clinging to rooftops and vehicles overturned by the powerful floods.
The floodwaters caused severe disruptions in transport and services, with trains suspended in affected areas and public institutions like schools, museums, and libraries in Valencia forced to close. In Malaga, a 71-year-old British man tragically died from hypothermia amid the chaos.
Survivors Recount Devastating Ordeal
Survivors of the disaster have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences. A resident from Valencia described the agonizing moment when the floodwaters rapidly rose, forcing them and their family to seek refuge on the roof of their home for hours. “We stayed on the roof until 4 a.m.,” the survivor recalled. “It was agonizing… but at least we are here to tell the story.”
Other families, such as that of Petruta Sandu, are still anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. Sandu’s parents were trapped on the roof of their car, but communication with them was lost overnight. Despite efforts to search for them, no one has been able to locate them yet.
Ongoing Efforts Amid Growing Tragedy
As the search and recovery operations continue, local authorities fear that the death toll could climb even further. In Valencia, a courthouse has been converted into a temporary morgue, and the town of Paiporta, also in Valencia, has seen at least 40 fatalities, including six from a retirement home.
This deadly flash flood event highlights the devastating power of extreme weather, leaving Spain grappling with widespread destruction and loss.
Source: Swifteradio.com