Residents of the Valencia region are being urged to return home after devastating floods earlier in the week, which resulted in a tragic death toll of 217 people, including 213 in Valencia alone. The National Meteorological Agency has issued a new 'red alert' due to the risk of further heavy rainfall, predicting up to 90 liters per square meter in just one hour on Sunday evening.
Survivors like Irene Cuevas described harrowing experiences during the floods, recalling the terrifying sounds of rushing water and the fear that gripped their communities. Cuevas, a resident of Chiva, shared how her town received more rain in eight hours than it had in the past 20 months, leading to significant destruction and loss of life.
As cleanup efforts continue, local citizens and volunteers are working tirelessly to remove debris and mud from affected areas. The Spanish government is deploying additional military personnel to assist in the recovery efforts, with 5,000 soldiers expected to join the 2,500 already on the ground.
