Massive floods hit Spanish Valencia region: dozens lost in worst disaster since 90s

Heavy rainfall caused devastating floods in eastern Spain leaving 62 people dead and many areas unreachable. Emergency teams work non-stop while PM promises full support for affected regions

October 30 2024 , 12:08 PM  •  1042 views

Massive floods hit Spanish Valencia region: dozens lost in worst disaster since 90s

The Valencia region faces its worst flood-related crisis in almost 30 years with rescue teams working round-the-clock to help trapped residents (the intense rainfall on oct-30 caused widespread chaos across eastern Spain)

Heavy downpour brought over 200-mm of rain to towns like Turis and Utiel - leading to massive flooding that left many areas cut-off. Emergency services used various equipment including bull-dozers and dinghies to save people from flood-waters; some locals had to climb trees to avoid being swept away

For those still searching for their loved ones‚ the whole of Spain weeps with you

Pedro Sanchez‚ Prime Minister during emergency address

Regional leader Carlos Mazon explained that reaching certain areas remains “absolutely impossible“ due to flood-waters. The disaster has stopped main transport links:

  • Madrid-Barcelona rail service suspended
  • Schools and key services closed
  • Roads blocked in affected areas
  • Military rescue units deployed

The floods impact goes beyond human cost - Valencia produces about 60% of Spains citrus fruits making it crucial for agriculture. Senior meteorologist Ernesto Rodriguez Camino points out that such events happen more often now due to Mediterranean warming

The death toll of 62 makes this disaster the deadliest in Spain since mid-90s when 87 people died in a Pyrenees town. Its also europes worst flood since german floods took 185 lives about 3 years back