The Secretary of State for the Environment of Spain, Hugo Morán, commented on the response to the dana in the Valencian Community, which left at least 92 dead and caused significant material damage in several regions of Spain. Morán mentioned that while predictions and analyses were effective, the response mechanisms failed to adequately incorporate the alerts issued in advance.
Morán emphasized that natural phenomena are acquiring unknown dimensions and that conventional responses to these are no longer sufficient. He expressed his concern about the resistance of citizens to accept that living conditions must change due to the global climate crisis. He highlighted the need to restrict, modify, and condition people's daily behaviors to address these challenges.
The Spanish Government declared three days of official mourning and announced plans to declare a disaster area in the affected regions. The heavy rains in the Valencian Community are considered the worst of the century, according to the State Meteorological Agency. Morán underscored that the climate crisis is a global phenomenon affecting all corners of the planet and that the consequences must be addressed urgently and based on science.
The Secretary of State warned about the need to make decisions regarding land use planning and natural resources to adapt to climate change. He emphasized the importance of a cultural shift in how development is approached to ensure a sustainable future.
