At least 95 people have lost their lives in what is being called the deadliest flood to hit Spain in modern history. Torrential rains lashed the eastern region of Valencia, causing unprecedented devastation as bridges and buildings were swept away.
Residents of the worst-hit areas recounted harrowing experiences of fleeing for their lives. “It’s a river that came through,” said Denis Hlavaty, who was stranded on a ledge at the petrol station where he works in Valencia. “The doors were torn away and I spent the night there, surrounded by water that was two meters deep.”
Scenes of chaos unfolded as people clambered onto the roofs of their cars to escape the surging waters. The floodwaters, a churning tide of brown, gushed through streets, uprooting trees and tearing away chunks of buildings’ masonry.
Local authorities have mobilized emergency services, and rescue operations are ongoing. The national government has declared a state of emergency in the affected regions, pledging support for the victims and efforts to rebuild the devastated communities.
The catastrophe has sent shockwaves not only across Spain but also around the world, highlighting the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. As global communities grapple with the impacts of climate change, events like these underscore the urgent need for international cooperation and preparedness.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
