Record Rain Triggers Valencia's Worst Floods in Decades, Killing at Least 72

Oct 30, 2024, 12:12 PM

Catastrophic flooding in Spain's eastern Valencia region has resulted in at least 72 deaths, local authorities report, marking one of the worst natural disasters to hit the country in recent years. Torrential rains brought more than a year's worth of precipitation in just eight hours, with Chiva recording 491 millimeters (19.3 inches) of rainfall, including 343 millimeters (13.5 inches) in a four-hour span between 4:30 PM and 8:30 PM. The deluge, the heaviest in over five decades, was caused by an upper-level low near the Strait of Gibraltar that funneled storms into eastern Spain. Flash floods swept away vehicles, submerged roads, and devastated towns such as Utiel, Aldaya, Sedaví, and Alfafar. Emergency services continue rescue operations as dozens remain missing, and the death toll is expected to rise. The severe weather has disrupted air and rail travel and caused significant damage to infrastructure across the region.