Emergency Declared in Valencia and Catalonia
Eastern Spain is facing a severe weather crisis as the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a red alert for torrential rains in the Valencia and Catalonia regions. More than half a million students are staying home today as schools remain closed across the affected areas.
The emergency measures come as the region braces for what could be the most significant rainfall event since last year's devastating floods that claimed over 200 lives. "People in Spain, especially in the Valencia region, certainly haven't forgotten the floods from late October last year," says Spain correspondent Miral de Bruijne.
Critical Situation in Aldaia
In the town of Aldaia, near Valencia, the situation is particularly dire. The area received 57 liters of water per square meter in just over half an hour, causing a dam breach that flooded streets and submerged a tunnel. Emergency services are working around the clock to manage the crisis.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has urged all citizens to follow emergency service instructions. While Catalonia appears to have passed the worst of the storm, Valencia continues to face severe weather conditions with thunderstorms expected throughout the day.
Lessons from Past Tragedies
The current emergency response reflects hard-learned lessons from last year's disaster. Authorities have compiled lists of vulnerable individuals and warned them to avoid garages and ground floors during the storm. This precaution comes after statistics showed that 70% of last year's victims were trapped in garages or ground-level areas.
The regional government of Valencia, led by President Carlos Mazón, has canceled all public engagements to focus on the emergency response. This represents a significant shift from last year's controversial handling of the floods, when Mazón faced criticism for being in a restaurant with a journalist while the flooding was ongoing.
According to El País, the mayor of Aldaia confirmed that measures have been implemented since last year's tragedy to better protect residents.
Coastal Warnings Extended
The red alert for the Valencia coast remains in effect until midnight, with authorities warning of potential flooding in coastal areas. Multiple flights have been canceled, and public spaces remain closed as the region prepares for continued severe weather.
Emergency notification systems, which were criticized for being too slow during last year's floods, have reportedly been improved and are functioning effectively during this crisis.