Two weeks after the storm that caused 223 deaths and enormous damage to homes and infrastructure in the Valencia region in eastern Spain, it has been officially announced that a new storm is threatening these same areas, as well as parts of southern Catalonia. Citizens are urged to avoid travel and remain in their homes.
There is deep unrest among the affected people due to delays in the arrival of first aid. In some towns, such as Alfafar, one of the most heavily damaged, the French aid and rescue group (GFAR) arrived before local responders, and it took several hours for the first fire trucks and army protection units to reach the area.
Mud continues to accumulate in the streets of most of the affected towns, obstructing the water drainage system. Large piles of cars still block the roads in several towns, despite significant cleanup efforts led primarily by residents.
Torrential rains of 180 mm/h began falling this morning in the Tarragona area, south of Barcelona, where at least three nursing homes had to be evacuated. Mud remains a major issue, and it is recalled that during a recent visit to the region by the King and Queen of Spain, Felipe VI and Letizia, pieces of rice were thrown at them, dirtying their clothes and even their faces. It is difficult to imagine any other monarchs in Europe who have been “muddied.”
For Wednesday, dozens of town halls in the Valencia region, including that of Chiva, one of the hardest-hit places, have suspended classes and closed public gyms due to the threat of further torrential rains.
“Due to the current state of the municipality of Chiva, and in accordance with information provided by emergency services, school and sports activities will be suspended from tomorrow until further notice,” the town hall announced on X.
Forecasts indicate that up to 80 liters per square meter may fall in 30 minutes in various areas threatened by this new storm. Mayors have advised citizens to protect themselves: “No one should go near rivers, streams, or the sea, as there is also a risk of waves.” The warning will be in effect from 6 a.m. on Wednesday.
About The Author
