Update: Spain’s DANA Storm Death Toll Reaches 51
Spain is dealing with the aftermath of one of the most severe DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) storms in recent memory. Flooding, high winds, hailstones, and even a tornado in Valencia have left communities devastated, with loss of life, extensive property damage, and massive disruptions in transportation.
51 Fatalities Reported in Valencia Alone
The latest reports from Spain’s Ministry of Interior confirm that at least 51 people have tragically lost their lives due to severe flooding in the Valencia region. A Multiple Victim Procedure has been activated as emergency personnel work tirelessly to recover and identify the victims. Helicopters from Murcia are aiding in rescue efforts, with teams braving hazardous conditions to locate missing persons and provide urgent relief to affected areas.
Murcia’s president, Fernando López Miras, referred to the situation as a ‘dark day for our country,’ expressing solidarity with affected regions and emergency workers who continue their rescue operations. A minute of silence was observed across multiple regions in memory of the victims with more to be held throughout the day.
Lo de Valencia deja de ser grave para pasar a ser trágico.
— Josema Vallejo (@JosemaVallejo) October 29, 2024
El canal 24h hablando de "la cultura" y el "balón de oro" en lugar de dar información en directo.
El presidente paseando en la India.
Los servicios de emergencia jugándose la vida y los ciudadanos sufriendo.
Recemos. pic.twitter.com/DoeTzkBHqt
Severe Damage to Infrastructure and Transportation
The storm has inflicted extensive damage on infrastructure across eastern and central Spain. Roads in Valencia remain impassable, with sections of the A-3, A-7, and several smaller routes submerged or otherwise inaccessible. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has urged residents to avoid travel in the affected areas.
Air traffic is also heavily impacted, with numerous flight delays and cancellations in Valencia, Madrid, Alicante, and Málaga due to poor weather conditions. Eurocontrol has also reported disruptions affecting international flights, particularly those connected to London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Zurich.
🔴 Letur (Albacete) despierta dejando estas impactantes imágenes tras las riadas que han arrasado el pueblo: muchas calles están intransitables y totalmente destrozadas y varias casas están afectadas https://t.co/x1BkqqcQU9 pic.twitter.com/rrHhgoYXgE
— Europa Press (@europapress) October 30, 2024
Muchísima fuerza y un abrazo inmenso a la gente de Valencia y a todos los afectados por la DANA. 51 fallecidos y dicen que pueden ser más de 100. Que desgracia. pic.twitter.com/UfntX4l3bn
— El Profeta (@EiProfeta) October 30, 2024
Government and Emergency Response Updates
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has convened a crisis committee at La Moncloa, bringing together top ministers to coordinate the national response. Their focus remains on assessing damage, allocating resources, and providing critical support to local authorities in devastated areas. Additional warnings and safety alerts are being issued across Valencia and neighboring regions as the storm shifts toward northern Spain, where further rainfall is expected.
Efectivos de todas las unidades de @UMEgob se encuentran desplegados en la provincia de Valencia. Durante el día de hoy tienen previsto continuar con las labores de evacuación, búsqueda de desaparecidos y tareas de achique. Siempre #ParaServir hasta que sea necesario. pic.twitter.com/b8DKIReOrS
— Ministerio Defensa (@Defensagob) October 30, 2024
Caution Advised as Recovery Continues
While meteorologists expect the storm’s intensity to lessen in coming days, the risk of additional flooding persists, particularly in western Andalucía and the northern parts of Valencia and Cataluña. Nine autonomous communities remain on alert for heavy rains and thunderstorms.
The Spanish public is advised to stay informed through official channels and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
This DANA storm, now one of the most catastrophic weather events in recent Spanish history, brought over 445 liters of rain per square meter in parts of Valencia, leaving a wake of destruction across multiple regions. With the death toll rising, officials urge residents to stay informed, exercise caution, and avoid unnecessary travel. The Generalitat Valenciana has established a dedicated emergency line at 900 365 112 for those looking for information on missing persons. Additionally, any urgent emergencies can still be reported via the general 112 hotline.
The International Reporter extends its deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by this tragedy and will continue to provide updates on the response efforts and support resources available in the coming days.
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