By : Lloyd Mahachi
A devastating torrential rainstorm has swept through southeastern Spain, triggering flash floods that have claimed multiple lives and left hundreds trapped. The Valencia region’s leader, Carlos Mazon, confirmed that bodies have been recovered, but declined to provide further details out of respect for the families. “Dead bodies have been found, but out of respect for the families, we are not going to provide any further data,” Mazon told reporters.
The eastern province of Albacete has been severely affected, with six people reported missing in the small town of Letur, which has a population of less than 1,000. Emergency services are working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals, using drones to search for survivors. Local official Milagros Tolon stated that “the priority is to find these people” as rescue efforts continue.
The flash floods have caused widespread destruction, with footage shared on social media showing bridges destroyed, cars swept away, and people clinging to trees to avoid being carried off by the rushing waters. Radio and TV stations have reportedly received hundreds of calls for help from people trapped in flooded areas or searching for loved ones.
Spain’s state weather agency, AEMET, has declared a red alert in the Valencia region and a second-highest level of alert in parts of Andalusia. As a precautionary measure, Valencia city hall has suspended all schools and sporting events on Wednesday, and parks will remain closed.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed concern over the reports of missing people and urged citizens to follow the advice of authorities. Sanchez advised against unnecessary trips, emphasizing the importance of caution during this critical situation.
The situation remains dire, with hundreds trapped and emergency services racing against time to locate the missing. The full extent of the damage and loss of life is yet to be determined, but it is clear that this devastating flood has had a profound impact on the affected regions.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi