- Angry crowds throw mud and insults at Spanish royals and PM in flood-hit Valencia
- Protesters angry at country’s response to floods
- Death toll is at 217, rescue teams continue to search for survivors
Angry crowds throw mud and insults at Spanish royals and PM in flood-hit Valencia
King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain faced a tense reception during their visit to flood-stricken Paiporta, Valencia. The royal couple, accompanied by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and regional leader Carlos Mazón, were met by angry protesters who threw mud and shouted insults, including “murderer” and “shame.” The king and queen were seen with mud-streaked clothes, consoling members of the affected community.
The devastating floods, the worst Spain has seen in decades, have claimed over 200 lives, with emergency teams still searching for survivors and victims in submerged areas like underground car parks. Frustration has mounted over what many residents see as inadequate warnings and insufficient government support.
Tensions peaked when security forces struggled to control the crowd, forcing Sánchez to leave swiftly as some hurled objects at his car. The king later expressed understanding of the public’s anger in a video message.
Mayor Maribel Albalat said she was shocked by the violent scenes but acknowledged the pain and desperation felt by residents. Despite the government deploying 10,000 additional personnel in Spain’s largest peacetime response, Sánchez admitted significant gaps in aid and support.
The floods began after intense rain on Tuesday, causing bridges to collapse and towns to be buried under thick mud. The region has been left in chaos, with many areas cut off from essential services. On Sunday, the death toll rose to 217, with more feared missing.
