The most devastating natural disaster in recent decades is currently ravaging Spain. At least 95 people have died in floods in the Valencia province of Andalusia, with dozens still missing. In response to the tragedy, the country's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, has announced three days of mourning.
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The flooding was preceded by torrential rain and hail on Tuesday, October 29. Cities and villages in the provinces of Valencia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Malaga were inundated from the onset of the disaster. Schools and other essential institutions in the affected regions are currently closed.
As meteorologists noted, the extreme temperature increase in the region is attributed to climate change, which has led to a rise in Mediterranean Sea temperatures and intensified evaporation, significantly impacting precipitation levels.
More than 400 mm of rain was recorded in Valencia, particularly in the cities of Turís, Chivas, and Buñol, prompting the state meteorological agency to issue a red alert, the highest level, on Tuesday.
The regional leader of Valencia, Carlos Mazzón, stated at a press conference that some people remain isolated, as it is "absolutely impossible" for rescuers to reach certain areas. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized that the government is making every effort to assist the flood victims.
"All of Spain is crying with you. Our absolute priority is your help… we will not abandon you,” the Prime Minister said in a televised address.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, remarked that the European Union is ready to support Spain in the rescue efforts. "What we're seeing in Spain is devastating. My thoughts are with the victims, their families and the rescue teams," she noted.
The last flood of a similar scale occurred in Spain in 1973, when 150 people died. In terms of casualties, this flood is the most destructive across Europe since the 2021 floods in Germany, which claimed at least 185 lives.
