Spain mobilizes thousands of troops, police amid deadly flooding crisis

Spain has deploying an unprecedented 10,000 personnel 5,000 soldiers and 5,000 police as the nation grapples with its deadliest natural disaster in living memory.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez made the announcement during a televised address on Saturday, describing the disaster as the second-deadliest flood in Europe this century.

As the rescue efforts continue, the death toll has reached at least 211, with a staggering 202 fatalities reported in Valencia alone. Rescuers are scouring the wreckage of submerged cars and devastated buildings four days after monstrous flash floods wreaked havoc across eastern Spain. Tragically, an unknown number of individuals remain unaccounted for.

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Thousands of volunteers have joined the recovery efforts, clearing thick mud that has engulfed streets, homes, and businesses in the hardest-hit towns. However, the response has drawn criticism, particularly regarding the efficacy of warning systems prior to the disaster. Opposition leaders are accusing the central government of Madrid of inadequate preparedness and delayed action in alerting residents and dispatching rescue teams.

“There has been a sense of anger that people have been left abandoned here,” reported Al Jazeera’s Sonia Gallego from Paiporta, one of the severely affected areas. “This neighbourhood, which is only half an hour from Valencia’s city centre, remained utterly cut off – no water, no electricity, hardly any telecommunications.”

Prime Minister Sanchez acknowledged the shortcomings of the government’s response, stating, “I am aware the response is not enough; there are problems and severe shortages… towns buried by mud, desperate people searching for their relatives.” Meanwhile, Susana Camarero, deputy head of the Valencia region, asserted that essential supplies have been delivered “from day one” to all accessible areas. Authorities have restricted road access for two days to facilitate efficient search, rescue, and logistics operations.

Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska indicated that it is “reasonable” to anticipate the discovery of more victims, with hopes that the number of missing persons will decrease as telephone and internet services are restored. The flooding, which began on Tuesday, was triggered by a storm resulting from cold air moving over warm Mediterranean waters—a meteorological phenomenon typical for this time of year. However, scientists warn that climate change is exacerbating the intensity, duration, and frequency of such extreme weather events, raising concerns about the future resilience of affected communities.