Intense rainfall triggered by a cold front has caused severe flooding in southeastern Spain, with Valencia experiencing the worst impact.
Valencia regional leader Carlos Mazon confirmed fatalities, though specific details were pending family notifications, reported the news agency AFP.
“Some bodies have already been found,” Mazon informed reporters on Wednesday.
When cold air masses interact with warmer air, they form cold fronts, leading to extreme weather conditions including heavy rain and rapid temperature changes.
On Tuesday, the eastern and southern regions of Spain experienced intense rainfall that flooded streets, damaged properties, and severely disrupted transportation systems.
Valencia faced the most severe impact, with rainfall measurements reaching 200 mm (7.9 inches) in areas like Turis and Utiel.
Residents documented the destruction through social media, showing vehicles being carried away by muddy water and flooded buildings.
Seven individuals remain unaccounted for, including six people from Letur in Albacete province and a Valencia-based truck driver. Search operations are ongoing with military support, utilizing drones and helicopters in difficult terrain.
The severity of the situation prompted Mazon to state, “We are facing an unprecedented situation, which nobody remembers.”
The Spanish government established an emergency committee on Tuesday to manage the crisis. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed concern and urged public compliance with safety directives. The weather disrupted air travel, with multiple flights diverted or cancelled, and suspended rail services between Madrid and Valencia.
In Andalusia, passengers escaped injury when a high-speed train derailed during extreme weather conditions. Emergency teams conducted helicopter rescues for people trapped by rising river waters in locations such as Alora.
AEMET issued severe weather warnings, predicting continued rainfall through Thursday. Scientists attribute the storm’s intensity to Mediterranean Sea warming caused by climate change, which increases water evaporation and storm strength.
Local authorities continue to advise residents to minimize travel and maintain safety measures due to blocked roads and service interruptions.
