One of the biggest natural disasters in Spain's history is occurring. So far, 51 people have lost their lives in the severe storm and flood that hit the country. In the Valencia region, neighborhoods have been submerged, and hundreds of people are trapped. The moments of the disaster were captured on camera. In the footage showing a woman being swept away by the floodwaters, the citizens' rescue efforts were insufficient. Although the woman tried to hold onto a street lamp, the strong floodwaters did not allow it. In another incident, a woman and her dog were rescued at the last moment by a helicopter. The situation in Valencia is very serious. Thirteen bodies were found overnight. In Paiporta, two men, a woman, and a baby lost their lives, while five people died in Torrent. The streets turned into rivers, vehicles were swept away by the floodwaters, and people took refuge in trees and buildings in a desperate attempt to save themselves. Utiel Mayor Ricardo Gabaldón described the situation as "the worst day of my life. The water level rose to three meters, everything was submerged." Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez promised the public, "We will not leave you alone." The government formed a crisis committee, and more than a thousand military personnel participated in the rescue efforts. There are concerns about the rising number of missing persons.
|