Valencia, Spain – A devastating flood swept through the eastern region of Valencia on Tuesday, resulting in the worst flooding in nearly three decades.
The heavy downpours, initially welcomed by residents in the drought-stricken area, quickly turned into a nightmare as the Magro River overflowed, inundating homes and streets.
Remedios, a local bar owner, described the terrifying scene as she sheltered customers from the raging waters. “People were very happy at first because they’d been praying for rain,” she said.
“But by noon, we were all pretty terrified.” The storm caused extensive damage, with mud, stones, and debris filling the streets, and many residents were trapped inside their homes.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the death toll had risen to 95 across Valencia and neighboring regions, with concerns that many of the deceased may have been elderly residents unable to evacuate.
Emergency services and military personnel mobilized to aid rescue efforts in the flooded Valencia region.Ricardo Gabaldón, the mayor of Utiel, reflected on the disaster, stating, “We were trapped like rats.” The town witnessed waters rising to three meters, submerging vehicles, and sweeping away debris.
In total, more than 300 liters of rain fell in some areas, equivalent to nearly an entire year’s worth of rainfall within just eight hours.
Spain’s meteorological office reported these extreme conditions as the country grapples with a severe drought exacerbated by climate change.
In response to the catastrophe, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared three days of national mourning, expressing solidarity with those affected.
The military has been mobilized to assist in search and rescue operations, with fears that more victims could be trapped in the wreckage.
Experts warn that these extreme weather events are clear indicators of climate change, highlighting the urgent need for action as the global temperature continues to rise.