Flood disaster in Spain killed at least 51 people in the Valencia region – The Irish Times

At least 51 people died flash flood sweep the east Spanish Heavy rain in the Valencia region on Tuesday flooded roads and towns, local authorities said on Wednesday.

Dozens of videos shared on social media throughout the night showed people stranded in floodwaters, some climbing trees to avoid being swept away.

Valencia’s regional leader, Carlos Mazon, said at a press conference that some people remained isolated in inaccessible places.

Emergency services have urged citizens to avoid all road travel and monitor updates from official sources.

Spain’s state weather agency AEMET declared a red alert in Valencia, and 200 mm was recorded in some areas such as Turis and Utiel.

Heavy rains caused by a cold front moving across the south and east of the country flooded roads and towns on Tuesday, prompting authorities in the worst-hit areas to advise citizens to stay at home and avoid non-essential travel. – Reuters