Flash floods across Spain have claimed the lives of at least 95 people, with Valencia suffering the most significant impact, according to officials on Wednesday. Emergency responders are actively searching for dozens of missing individuals, particularly in Valencia, where 92 people lost their lives. Other fatalities have been reported in Castile-La-Mancha and Andalusia as heavy rain continues to devastate the region.
Valencia suffers worst rainfall in 28 years, rescue efforts hampered by floods
In Valencia, the worst-affected area, emergency services are struggling to reach those trapped amid impassable highways and streets. State weather agency AEMET reported up to 12 inches of rain in certain areas on Tuesday, marking the heaviest rainfall the city has seen in nearly three decades. Roads have become rivers, with abandoned vehicles carried away by floodwaters and significant damage to public infrastructure.
Prime minister pledges government support as military joins in rescue efforts
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has assured victims that all necessary resources will be deployed to aid rescue and recovery operations. Over 1,000 military personnel have been mobilized to assist, as Spain declares three days of mourning in remembrance of those lost in the unprecedented deluge.
“A dam burst”: witnesses recall the overwhelming force of flash floods
Survivors have described the flooding as catastrophic, comparing the water’s force to a dam breaking. Emiliano García-Page, Castile-La-Mancha’s regional president, told TVE about the “agonizing” experience for residents trapped in their homes and on rooftops, waiting for help.