At least 95 people are reported to have been killed in catastrophic flooding in eastern Spain, the country’s public broadcaster RTVE reported.
According to an Anadolu report, at least 92 people died in the region of Valencia and two in Castile-La Mancha. A third victim died in Malaga. In Paiporta, one of the hardest-hit towns, the mayor spoke about “dozens of deaths” from the storm. Authorities still have not offered an estimate on the number still missing.
The latest death toll comes after an excruciating night of devastating flash floods, caused by the worst storm of the century, comparable only to two in the 1980s, according to Spain’s meteorological agency.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged people to stay vigilant as storms continue to batter the Iberian Peninsula, warning that the weather front is “still wreaking havoc” and the emergency is far from over.
On Wednesday afternoon, the government of Catalonia activated a red alert in parts of the Barcelona province. Spain’s meteorological agency also activated a red alert for areas in Cadiz.
Sanchez called for unity and solidarity, cautioning residents in affected regions, including Valencia, Andalusia and Extremadura to avoid travel near ravines and riverbanks and to follow emergency advisories.
He pledged full support, assuring that all state resources, and, if necessary, assistance from the EU would be provided.
Speaking to reporters in the Canary Islands, Spain’s King Felipe addressed the flood disaster, voicing concern about the extensive destruction and the ongoing challenges. He noted that access to some areas remains difficult, leaving the full scope of the damage and potential casualties still uncertain.
Expressing relief that all available resources are in place for authorities and emergency services, he stressed the importance of allowing them to continue to work in a coordinated manner.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Spanish government announced it would declare the affected area a “catastrophic zone.”
