Severe flooding in Spain’s eastern Valencia region has claimed at least 51 lives, rescue services confirmed on Wednesday. The disaster, triggered by torrential rains on Tuesday, has left several areas inundated, with authorities recovering multiple bodies in the aftermath. Valencia was one of the hardest-hit areas, as flash floods swept through streets, destroyed walls, and carried away vehicles.
Government Response and Extreme Weather Warnings
In response to the crisis, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has established a dedicated committee to coordinate emergency actions. The task force includes representatives from the Civil Guard, National Police, General Directorate of Civil Protection, and Military Emergency Unit. Spain’s Meteorological Agency, AEMET, has issued extreme rain warnings across multiple regions, including Valencia, predicting rainfall of up to 200mm in under 12 hours.
Some areas experienced even more extreme weather, with Chiva, near Valencia, receiving an unprecedented 320mm of rainfall in just over four hours—far exceeding the October average of 77mm. The intense weather also impacted Murcia and Malaga, where over 100mm of rain was recorded. The flooding has severely disrupted transportation, causing 12 flights to divert from Valencia airport and the cancellation of 10 others.
Rescue Operations and Climate Change Concerns
In the province of Albacete, a truck driver and six others are missing amid the chaos, with rescue teams deploying drones to aid in search efforts. Letur, one of the worst-affected areas, has seen large-scale rescue operations as authorities work to locate those unaccounted for.
Spain’s King Felipe VI expressed his “heartfelt condolences” to victims’ families and acknowledged the widespread devastation. Local media reported hundreds of emergency calls from residents trapped in flooded areas or seeking information on missing loved ones.
The tragic flooding highlights concerns from scientists who warn that climate change could make such extreme weather events more frequent. As recovery efforts continue, the nation mourns the lives lost and braces for future weather-related challenges.
