The torrential rains that have swept across southeast Spain have resulted in the death of many people with thousands of citizens being forced to leave their homes, in what is considered one of the worst flooding to devastate Europe in recent years.
In a most recent account, at least 72 people have been killed in flash floods hitting the eastern Spanish region of Valencia following torrential rains on Tuesday that left roads and towns under water, local authorities said on Wednesday.
A woman looks out a window above a mud-covered street after torrential rains caused flooding in La Alcudia, Valencia region, Spain, October 30, 2024. REUTERS/Eva Manez TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Dozens of videos shared on social media overnight appeared to show people trapped by the floodwaters, with some climbing into trees seeking protection.
Carlos Mazon, the regional leader of Valencia, reportedly claimed that some people have remained isolated in inaccessible locations.
River water churns, with a partially collapsed bridge seen in the background, after torrential rains caused flooding in the town of Carlet, Valencia region, Spain, October 30, 2024. REUTERS/Eva Manez
Mazon explained that any delay in emergency services reaching affected areas was not due to a lack of resources or willingness but rather due to severe accessibility issues. He emphasized that reaching some locations was simply impossible.
Emergency services in the region urged citizens to avoid any kind of road travel and follow further updates from official sources.
Trains to the cities of Madrid and Barcelona were cancelled due to the flooding, and schools and other essential services were suspended in the worst-hit areas.
The UME military unit specialised in rescue operations was deployed in some areas to help local emergency workers.
A river flows under a partially collapsed bridge affected by torrential rains that caused flooding in the town of Carlet, Valencia region, Spain, October 30, 2024. REUTERS/Eva Manez
Spain’s state weather agency AEMET declared a red alert in Valencia, with some areas such as Turis and Utiel recording 200 mm (7.9 inches) of rainfall.
The death toll appears to be the worst in Europe from flooding since 2021 when almost 200 people died, mainly in Germany.
Scientists say that extreme weather events in the region are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
