Floods Hit Barcelona and Delay Flight
Barcelona was hit by severe flooding on Monday, following last week’s devastating flash floods in the Valencia region. Heavy rain has placed parts of Catalonia on red alert, causing partial flooding at Barcelona’s El Prat airport and over 80 flight disruptions. These storms follow severe flooding in Valencia, where responders continue searching submerged areas for missing victims. Emergency crews remain active as weather conditions exacerbate recovery efforts across affected regions.
Valencia Search and Rescue Operations Intensify
Valencia authorities are prioritising rescue operations in underground areas like car parks, tunnels, and garages where floodwaters trapped numerous victims. In Aldaia, emergency teams are searching an underground car park at a shopping mall, fearing shoppers and workers may be trapped. Rescuers remain focused on these critical areas as floodwaters hinder efforts. Despite inspecting over 50 vehicles near the entrance, large portions of the area remain inaccessible due to flooding.
High Death Toll and Missing Persons
The recent floods in Valencia have left a staggering toll, with over 200 deaths reported and an unknown number still missing. Among the confirmed casualties were a British couple found days after the floods trapped them in their vehicle. Spanish authorities have not disclosed the exact number of those still unaccounted for as search efforts continue. Rescuers are employing drones to assess submerged areas and plan next steps in the challenging rescue mission.
Public Outrage and Protests Over Government Response
The slow response by authorities has led to public outrage, with protesters gathering in flood-hit areas. In Paiporta, a Valencia suburb, furious citizens hurled mud and debris at King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez during their visit. They accused officials of inadequate disaster prevention and ineffective response to the flooding crisis. The Spanish Civil Guard has launched an investigation into the chaotic scenes, blaming “marginal groups” for escalating tensions.
Military Deploys to Support Flood Relief Efforts
In response to the disaster, Spain’s Military Emergencies Unit (UME) has mobilised over 7,800 troops, along with thousands of volunteers, to support relief efforts. General Francisco Javier Marcos stated that military forces were deployed rapidly, working double shifts to assist those affected. A warship carrying essential supplies arrived at Valencia’s port on Monday, providing much-needed food and water to affected communities.
Residents Demand Action Amid Escalating Crisis
As emergency services and military units continue flood relief efforts, residents in Valencia and Barcelona are calling for comprehensive flood prevention measures. Local authorities have extended travel restrictions and closed schools to facilitate ongoing operations, while community members rally for government accountability. With over 69 municipalities affected, citizens emphasise the urgent need for infrastructure improvements to prevent future flooding disasters in the region.
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