The death toll from Spain’s worst flooding disaster in decades rose to 205 on Friday, with hopes dwindling for the dozens still missing. The floods, which have ravaged areas since Tuesday, have displaced thousands, destroyed infrastructure, and left towns buried under mud.
Emergency services in Valencia, the hardest-hit region, confirmed 202 fatalities, while three more deaths were reported in Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia. Rescuers, aided by helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs, are continuing their search for survivors amid difficult conditions. The government has deployed an additional 500 troops to assist the 1,200 personnel already in place for rescue efforts.
Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska reported that the Civil Guard had rescued over 4,500 people. However, with three days since the initial flooding, chances of finding more survivors are fading. Some areas remain isolated without essential supplies or power, while roads and railways remain inaccessible.
In response to looting in affected areas, authorities have tightened security, with police arresting 50 people on theft charges. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez commended Spain’s volunteers and pledged continued support, urging residents to avoid interfering with ongoing rescue operations.
