In a historic response to devastating floods that have ravaged parts of Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has authorized the country’s largest peacetime military deployment. A total of 10,000 troops and police officers are being mobilized to assist in the relief efforts following a catastrophic weather event that has claimed the lives of at least 211 individuals across eastern, southern, and central regions of the country.
During a recent meeting of the flood crisis committee, Sánchez characterized the flooding as a “terrible tragedy,” with Valencia being one of the most affected areas. In a televised address, he expressed his condolences to those mourning lost loved ones, stating, “There are still dozens of people looking for their loved ones and hundreds of households mourning the loss of a relative, a friend, or a neighbor.” The prime minister emphasized the need for collective effort, urging citizens to put aside political differences in the wake of the disaster.
Sánchez noted that the emergency response has involved “the largest deployment of armed forces and police personnel that’s ever been seen in our country during peacetime.” In the initial 48 hours following the crisis, military and police forces have conducted 4,800 rescues, assisting over 30,000 people trapped in their homes, on roads, and in flooded industrial areas. Despite these efforts, he acknowledged that many victims remain cut off from help, highlighting the challenges faced in reaching blocked areas.
Ongoing Efforts And Resources Deployed
To bolster the response, Sánchez has ordered the dispatch of an additional 4,000 personnel from the military emergencies unit to Valencia, along with 1,000 more troops expected to arrive shortly. An amphibious naval vessel equipped with operating theaters, helicopters, and a fleet of vehicles is also being sent to Valencia port to enhance the ongoing rescue efforts. Additionally, 5,000 more national police and civil guard officers will be deployed, building on the 2,500 soldiers and 5,000 police already in the area.
As recovery efforts progress, Sánchez emphasized the importance of identifying and retrieving the bodies of the deceased with dignity. Over the past 48 hours, military and security personnel have conducted thorough inspections in various locations, recovering the bodies of 211 victims. Specialist forensic teams and mobile morgues are on-site, prepared to work tirelessly until all victims are accounted for.
Community Resilience Amid Crisis
In the heart of the relief effort, Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences has transformed into the command center for cleanup operations. Thousands of volunteers have arrived to lend support, although their spontaneous contributions have at times complicated access for emergency responders. The prime minister noted that power has been restored to 94% of affected homes, with telephone services expected to be repaired over the weekend.
Sánchez acknowledged the public’s frustration regarding the government’s emergency response, particularly the delay in issuing alerts prior to the floods. While emphasizing the urgency of current relief efforts, he assured citizens that there would be time to reflect on the shortcomings of the response and to consider improvements for future public service capabilities, especially in the context of climate change.
Ongoing Weather Threats
As Spain grapples with the aftermath of these floods, an orange weather warning remains in effect for Castellón province in Valencia and parts of Tarragona in Catalonia, signaling continued threats of severe weather. With countless homes damaged, vital infrastructure in ruins, and many individuals still unaccounted for, the road to recovery will be long and fraught with challenges.
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