Spain launches search for bodies after deadly floods claim over 150 lives

Rescue crews searched for bodies in stranded cars and flooded buildings on Thursday after flash floods devastated Spain, claiming at least 158 lives. Most fatalities occurred in the eastern Valencia region, where the floods were deemed the deadliest natural disaster in recent memory.

The storm’s destruction left behind a scene reminiscent of a tsunami, forcing residents to sift through the ruins of their homes as they mourned lost loved ones.

The floods created chaos in Valencia, where cars piled on top of each other and mud swallowed streets. An unknown number of people remain missing, and officials fear the death toll could rise. “Unfortunately, there are dead people inside some vehicles,” said Spain’s Transport Minister Oscar Puente, as the confirmed death toll increased from 95 on Wednesday night.

Rushing waters transformed narrow streets into deadly rivers, sweeping away cars and destroying homes. The floods obliterated bridges and rendered roads unrecognizable. Luis Sanchez, a local welder, witnessed the horror firsthand.

He helped rescue several people trapped in their vehicles on the flooded V-31 highway, describing it as a floating graveyard. “I saw bodies floating past,” he recalled. “People were crying all over; they were trapped.”

Authorities reported that rescuers, including 1,000 soldiers, worked tirelessly, saving around 70 people stranded on rooftops and in cars. “We are searching house by house,” said Angel Martinez, a soldier assisting in the efforts. An Associated Press journalist observed rescuers retrieving seven body bags from an underground garage.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized the urgency of the search, stating, “Our priority is to find the victims and the missing so we can help end the suffering of their families.” Thursday marked the first of three official days of mourning for the victims.

This unprecedented deluge shocked regional officials. Although Spain’s Mediterranean coast is accustomed to autumn storms, this flash flood was exceptional. Scientists attributed the extreme weather to climate change, which has exacerbated drought conditions across Spain. With the ground hardened from nearly two years of drought, it could not absorb the rain, leading to flash floods.

As frustration grew among residents searching for basic supplies, anger mounted over the authorities’ late warnings and chaotic response. “Stay home and heed the official recommendations,” the Prime Minister urged, highlighting the ongoing threat as heavy rains continued across the region.