At least 64 people have died and several are missing due to torrential flooding in the Spanish regions of Comunidad Valenciana and Castilla-La Mancha. Authorities have confirmed 62 victims in Comunidad Valenciana, the most affected area, as well as two bodies found in Castilla-La Mancha. Power outages are reported, and dozens of people are trapped by water in various localities.
The infrastructure has been severely affected, leading to the suspension of classes in several localities and the interruption of road, train, and air transport services in Valencia. Valencia airport has been flooded, causing diversions and flight cancellations. The Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, has expressed his condolences for the human losses and urged caution regarding the situation.
The State Meteorological Agency has classified this phenomenon of "cold drop" as the worst of the 21st century in Spain. In a 24-hour period, 445.4 liters per square meter were recorded in Valencia, the highest amount since 1966. King Felipe has sent a message of solidarity to those affected, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has offered assistance from the European Union.
Intense showers and storms are expected in the northern half of Spain for Wednesday, with a violent weather warning issued in the province of Barcelona for wind gusts of up to 90 kilometers per hour and large hail. The situation remains critical, and the episode has been declared the worst of the century so far.
