In Valencia, Spain, a catastrophic flood has left the region reeling, with rescuers desperately scouring inundated garages in search of bodies. The death toll has tragically soared to 217, marking this as one of the worst disasters of its kind in decades. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, the national weather service AEMET has declared the end of the emergency for Valencia, yet parts of northeastern Catalonia remain on high alert for torrential rain.
Transport Minister Oscar Puente announced the suspension of Catalan trains until further notice, while flights at Barcelona’s El Prat airport faced delays and diversions. Thousands of soldiers, police officers, civil guards, and firefighters have been tirelessly working for six days, distributing aid and clearing away mud and debris. However, many towns are still struggling to receive assistance, with volunteers stepping in to provide essential supplies like food, water, and sanitation equipment.
Community Response and Criticism
Residents like Jorge from Chiva voiced their frustration, stating, “We shouldn’t romanticise it: the people saved the people because we were abandoned.” This sentiment was echoed as the king and queen canceled their visit after facing mud and insults from crowds in Paiporta. The locals are calling for recognition of the volunteers who have been the true heroes in this crisis, rather than those merely seeking publicity.
On the ground, divers have shifted their focus to garages and a multistorey car park in Aldaia, where many victims were trapped in their vehicles during the storm. The storm's ferocity, attributed to human-induced climate change, has raised alarm bells among environmental activists. Emi, a 21-year-old activist, lamented, “Politicians haven’t acted on climate change, and now we’re paying the consequences of their inaction.” As local authorities extend travel restrictions and cancel classes, the community remains on edge, grappling with the devastating effects of this natural disaster.
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