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Over 150 Confirmed Dead in Spain's Devastating Floods

Thursday, October 31, 2024 by Grace Ramos

Over 150 Confirmed Dead in Spain's Devastating Floods
Cars piled up after being swept away by the water - Image © Social Media via Valencia Bonita

Spanish authorities have confirmed that more than 150 individuals have lost their lives due to catastrophic floods triggered by the DANA (Isolated Depression in High Levels) weather phenomenon. The hardest-hit areas include the Valencian Community, Castilla-La Mancha, and parts of Andalusia. As of the latest update on Thursday at 3:00 p.m., the death toll stands at 158, with 155 of those in the province of Valencia.

This morning, nine bodies were discovered in a Valencian village, eight of which, including a local police officer, were found in a garage. The government has also announced that there are still "numerous missing persons," suggesting the death toll could rise further. According to Defense Minister Margarita Robles, the exact number of missing individuals is not yet known, but it is described as "many."

Ongoing Rescue and Recovery Efforts

Over 1,200 personnel from various military forces are actively engaged in search and rescue missions, evacuating residents from inundated areas, and cleaning up numerous communities where the waters have receded. Many municipalities remain without clean drinking water, and approximately 75,000 individuals are still without power. An additional 450 people are sheltered in temporary accommodations.

Widespread Destruction

Images and videos circulating online depict floodwaters sweeping away vehicles with people inside or on top, bridges destroyed by the deluge, and perilous rescue operations. Alongside the extensive damage to homes and businesses, thousands of cars have been reported destroyed, compounding the damage to roads and rail lines.

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