Almost a month since the most catastrophic DANA in Valencia’s history, over 180,000 affected residents, primarily in the Huerta Sur region, are still grappling with its consequences. Besides the obvious physical damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles, the floodwaters have also caused a less visible but dangerous impact: the risk of infections and diseases.
The Generalitat Valenciana has initiated a major clean-up operation to address health concerns in the aftermath of the devastating DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) that struck nearly a month ago. While municipal cleaning crews have made progress in public spaces, private properties have largely been neglected. As a result, residents and volunteers have been left to manage these contaminated areas, often without proper protective equipment or training. The first cases of leptospirosis are confirmed. The government has now launched the ‘Lodo Cero’ (Zero Mud) plan to expedite cleaning efforts and reduce health risks. Starting Monday, professional teams will work in affected municipalities. These include Albal, Cararroja, Masanasa, Sedaví, Alfafar, Paiporta, Picaña, and Benetúser—areas hit hardest by mud accumulation.
According to the director of Fire Prevention, Rosa Tourís, initial inspections began on Sunday, highlighting the “extreme complexity” of the process. Authorities are prioritising locations where public health concerns are most pressing. Therefore, they are equipping clean-up teams with necessary protective gear. The regional Ministry of the Environment reports that since the emergency plan began, approximately 200,000 tonnes of waste, including mud and household debris, have been cleared. This figure already surpasses the 180,000 tonnes generated throughout the entire region last year.
Confirmed cases of leptospirosis
The stagnant conditions have also begun to foster disease. Since 29th October, five cases of leptospirosis have been confirmed across the Valencian Community. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection typically associated with floodwaters contaminated by the urine of infected rodents, such as rats. It can enter the human body through cuts or mucous membranes, putting not only residents but also volunteers and workers at risk.
Javier Arranz, spokesperson for the Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine, explained in El Debate that leptospirosis is a common consequence of flooding. “Rodent residues in stagnant waters increase the likelihood of infection, which usually appears between seven to 14 days, but can take up to 20 days from exposure,” he stated.
Health recommendations for residents and volunteers
Health authorities are urging residents and volunteers involved in the clean-up to take extra precautions. “Proper use of protective equipment such as boots, gloves, and masks is crucial, along with maintaining good hand and foot hygiene,” Arranz advised. He also recommended that anyone experiencing symptoms consult healthcare services immediately to avoid complications. So far, the public health situation remains “stable and controlled,” according to the Health Ministry. However, the threat is far from over, with cases of legionella and gastroenteritis also being reported. In response, a tetanus vaccination campaign began shortly after the floods and is now considered the most pressing health measure for those in the affected zones.
Impact on everyday life
Education and kids
The impact on everyday life has been severe, writes El País. At least 16,000 children are still unable to attend school. Many educational institutions are either damaged or unsafe for use. The disruption to education has left children isolated, with parents struggling to provide an adequate learning environment at home. The lack of communication from the Generalitat has only added to the uncertainty, with many families unsure when their children will be able to resume their education. Public spaces, such as parks and recreational areas, remain unusable due to contamination. Consequently, exacerbating the lack of safe spaces for children.
Also read: Worker dies in collapsed school damaged by DANA
Housing
Housing remains a critical issue. 2,147 homes are rendered uninhabitable and 491 evacuated due to structural issues. Many residents are living in overcrowded conditions with relatives or relying on temporary shelter. The Generalitat Valenciana has allocated some social housing. However, the supply falls short of the demand, and many affected families face uncertain futures. The housing shortage has been compounded by bureaucratic hurdles in accessing rental assistance and social housing. Resulting in hundreds of families living in limbo. For those whose homes are still standing but uninhabitable, the challenges are immense. Mold and structural damage make many ground-floor apartments unsafe. Furthermore, the slow pace of inspections means that more homes may yet be deemed unfit for habitation. Without immediate solutions, the region faces a prolonged housing emergency.
Economic losses
The economic cost of the DANA is staggering. Companies in the region have suffered losses estimated at over €9 billion, with the agricultural sector particularly hard hit. Farmers are working tirelessly to salvage crops that survived the flood. Furthermore, many small businesses in industrial areas like Catarroja and Paiporta have been destroyed, and thousands of vehicles have been written off. However, the logistical challenges posed by damaged vehicles and infrastructure make recovering a daunting task. The collapse of transportation routes, including rail services in L’Horta Sud, has further hampered recovery efforts. The railway network is not expected to resume full operation until mid-2025. Thus, leaving many residents reliant on limited bus services.