- Spain’s flood death toll expected to rise
- At least 95 dead and dozens still missing
- People are criticising the country’s response to the flooding
Spain’s flood death toll expected to rise
Spain is grappling with its worst flooding in decades, with at least 95 confirmed dead and dozens still missing after torrential rains devastated the eastern province of Valencia and beyond. Flash floods struck on Tuesday, sweeping away buildings, bridges, and forcing residents to seek safety on roofs and trees.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has declared three days of national mourning as search and rescue operations face challenges from ongoing extreme weather. Most of the deaths were recorded in Valencia, with additional casualties in Castilla-La Mancha and Málaga. In some areas, including Chiva near Valencia, a year’s worth of rainfall fell in just eight hours, according to Spain’s national weather agency, Aemet.
The response to the flooding has drawn criticism, with many saying authorities were slow to issue warnings, leaving people stranded. The Civil Protection Agency’s alert came too late for several towns already hit by flooding.
Meanwhile, Spain has mobilised over 1,000 troops for rescue efforts, though access remains difficult due to submerged roads and power outages.