The historic floods in Spain’s Valencia region have left many residents feeling abandoned and desperate, as communities struggle with overwhelming losses and limited resources. In response to the lack of coordinated response, people have taken to social media platforms like X and Instagram to post photos and updates about missing loved ones and pets, hoping to locate them.
Platforms such as ALERTA Desaparecidos and DANA Desaparecidos have become critical resources for sharing information on the unaccounted-for, as government hotlines have been inundated with the volume of calls.
Frustrated and angry residents
Tensions have escalated further as on a visit to Paiporta, King Felipe and Queen Letizia encountered frustrated and angry residents, with some directing shouts of “murderers” at the couple. The reaction to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s visit was similarly intense, with objects thrown at him, leading security to escort him away quickly.
A far-right organisation has sinced owned up to its involvement in this. Pedro Sanchez later issued a statement on X, “We share the anguish of the citizens. We know their needs and we have clear priorities: saving lives, recovering the bodies of those who have died and rebuilding the areas affected by the Dana. Violence exercised by a few will not divert us from the collective interest. It is time to look ahead and continue working, with all the means and coordination necessary to overcome this emergency together”.
Additional troops and volunteers
In response, the Spanish government has deployed an additional 2,500 troops, bringing the military presence to 7,800 troops in the region by Monday afternoon. They join 5,223 Guardia Civil and 4,256 Policia Nacional personnel in recovery and rescue efforts. Military resources include helicopters, watercraft, and emergency supplies, all aimed at aiding isolated communities. Security forces have been searching for victims in ravines and underground garages, including a large parking lot at the Bonaire shopping centre in Aldaia.
Thousands upon thousands of volunteers have also joined the efforts, braving difficult terrain to help neighbours in need.
On-going weather
Meanwhile, the weather remains a significant concern. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issued alerts for further rain in Valencia, Castellon, and Alicante, warning that additional downpours could worsen the existing flood damage. These conditions are affecting transportation, with numerous flight cancellations and delays at Barcelona’s El Prat Airport and disrupted train and metro services.
https://x.com/AEMET_CValencia/status/1853721214277067124
In an effort to alleviate some of the financial strain on affected residents, the Treasury has suspended upcoming personal income tax collections in the Valencia province. In the event that a financial institution makes the charge, it will be returned immediately.