Search efforts in Spain continue after severe storms led to catastrophic flooding, particularly in Valencia, where the death toll has reached 217. Rescue teams are now focusing on submerged underground areas, including the Bonaire shopping center’s parking garage. While community volunteers and military personnel assist in the operation, concerns over missing persons—estimated by some at 2,500—persist. Frustration among residents regarding response times and disaster warnings is growing, as the commitment to finding survivors remains steadfast.
Ongoing Search Efforts in Spain After Severe Storms
In the aftermath of last week’s devastating storms, Spain is still actively searching for potential victims. The focus has now expanded to include underground garages that remain partially submerged.
Despite nearly a week passing since the catastrophic flooding, the search for both victims and survivors is far from over. There is mounting apprehension that the death toll, currently standing at 217—primarily in the province of Valencia—may continue to increase.
According to Transport Minister Óscar Puente, rescue teams have been concentrating on accessible areas above ground. However, the scope of the search is now reaching underground garages, basements, and lower levels that are still flooded. One significant site of focus is the Bonaire shopping center in Aldaia, located in Valencia, where about 2,700 parking spaces remain inundated.
Community Response and Ongoing Challenges
The spirit of community support in Spain is palpable, with many volunteers actively providing assistance in the search efforts. Rescue teams and soldiers have deployed numerous pumps to remove water from the affected areas, and divers have been enlisted to examine submerged vehicles. To date, no bodies have been recovered, but the search persists under challenging conditions.
Aldaia’s mayor, Guillermo Luján, spoke to the media about the uncertainties that lie ahead. He urged citizens not to panic, noting that the parking lot was largely empty during the flooding, with estimates of fewer than 100 vehicles parked there.
The exact number of missing persons remains uncertain, with various media outlets reporting figures as high as 2,500. However, these numbers are inconsistent and may stem from emergency calls received during the storm. Ángel Víctor Torres Pérez, Spain’s Minister for Territorial Policy, cautioned against speculation regarding the missing.
In addition to a dedicated network of volunteers, approximately 10,000 police and civil protection personnel are engaged in rescue operations. Defense Minister Margarita Robles announced plans to increase the military presence in the affected areas to around 7,500 soldiers, along with a warship carrying supplies to Valencia.
Amidst these rescue efforts, frustration is growing among residents due to perceived delays in disaster warnings and the sluggish pace of response efforts. This unrest was evident during a visit from the Spanish royal family, where some attendees expressed their grievances vocally, leading to police investigations into potential far-right group involvement in orchestrating protests.
As the situation evolves, the commitment to finding survivors continues, highlighting the resilience and determination of the Spanish people in the face of adversity.