València, Spain — The province of València has been struck by a severe meteorological event known as a DANA (isolated high-altitude depression), leading to the worst human tragedy since the Tous dam collapse in 1982. Official sources report at least 62 fatalities, with ongoing rescue efforts to locate numerous missing individuals, including several civil guards trapped in the municipality of Paiporta.
The destructive weather system, which also impacted Albacete and parts of Andalusia, has rendered Valencia temporarily isolated due to its flooded access points. In Albacete, the town of Latur has several individuals missing, termed a “disaster” by its mayor. Andalusia has faced up to 870 incidents, predominantly in Malaga, Granada, and Almería.
Unprecedented rainfall has caused significant flooding across several towns, with disruptions extending to rail traffic between València and major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. The intense storm led to the suspension of classes in numerous educational centers and the closure of several roads, including major highways. Metrovalencia services were also suspended, complicating the local transport situation.
The Spanish government has activated a crisis committee to manage the emergency, with efforts including the deployment of 1,034 military personnel from the Military Emergency Unit (UME). President Carlos Mazón, while not confirming the exact number of casualties, stated that the “multiple victims” protocol had been activated. Additionally, President Pedro Sánchez, upon returning from his trip to India, was set to lead the crisis committee and issue an institutional statement.
Record-breaking rainfall was recorded, with up to 445.4 liters per square meter in Chiva, marking the highest 24-hour accumulation in Valencian Community since 1996. The Valencian Meteorology Association (Avamet) highlighted that numerous locations in the region experienced over 400 liters per square meter. Major waterways like the Magro River and the Poyo Ravine have overflowed, significantly affecting the regions of Ribera Alta and Utiel-Requena.
Locale authorities and emergency teams have been working tirelessly. In cities like Picanya, the water’s force demolished a bridge, intensifying the urgency of the situation. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors as emergency teams, including firefighters, responded to extensive calls for help and conducted numerous rescues of people trapped on rooftops or in flooded basements.
The severity of this event brought national attention, with the Royal Family expressing their condolences and concern through official statements. They acknowledged the significant efforts of the emergency and security teams involved.
In light of the ongoing conditions, a new public safety alert advised residents against all road travel in Valencia province to avoid the hazardous effects of continual heavy rains. This message was part of an effort to ensure public safety amid one of the most severe weather events in recent history, which continues to challenge the resilience and response capabilities of Spanish emergency services.