Devastating floods in Spain have caused numerous casualties and widespread infrastructure damage in several regions of the country. Find out about the current situation, safety measures and recommendations for Ukrainians in the affected regions
The east coast of Spain is suffering from catastrophic floods that have killed at least 51 people as of October 30. The disaster paralyzed transportation and led to mass evacuations in several regions of the country.
The scale of the natural disaster in Spain
The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has declared a red - the highest - level of danger for the eastern part of Valencia. In some areas, particularly in Turis and Utiel, the amount of precipitation exceeded the critical mark of 200 millimeters, causing large-scale flooding of residential areas and infrastructure facilities.
Transportation collapse
The disaster significantly affected transportation in the region:
– Ten flights to and from Valencia Airport were canceled;
– High-speed trains on the Madrid-Valencia route were suspended;
– Metrovalencia has completely stopped working due to the flooding of the control room, and the resumption of traffic on all lines is expected no earlier than the next day;
– Adif has suspended AVE high-speed trains on the Madrid-Valencia line. For the safety of passengers, Chamartín (Madrid), Valencia and Cuenca stations will operate around the clock;
– In neighboring Andalusia, a high-speed train with 276 passengers derailed (fortunately, there were no casualties).
Emergency measures in Valencia
Due to the critical situation, local authorities have introduced a number of restrictive measures:
– All classes have been canceled due to the red alert level;
– All parks, gardens and cemeteries are closed to ensure the safety of residents;
– The city council strongly recommends avoiding any unnecessary travel due to dangerous road conditions.
The rescue operation is ongoing
The situation remains critical. Hundreds of people are trapped:
– On the roofs of shops and gas stations;
– In blocked cars and trucks;
– On bridges and highways where water flows have paralyzed traffic.
Valencia's rescue services have engaged the UME military unit, which specializes in overcoming the consequences of natural disasters, to the operation. The evacuation of the victims is taking place around the clock, including with the use of helicopters. The situation is particularly difficult in the city of Alora, where dozens of residents had to be rescued due to the river overflow.
Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
Safety tips for Ukrainians in Spain
If you are in Spain, please follow these recommendations:
1. Constantly follow the messages of local authorities and the meteorological service
2. Keep your wits about you:
– Documents in waterproof packaging
– A supply of drinking water and food
– Flashlight and charged power bank
– First aid kit
3. In case of a flood threat:
– Move immediately to the upper floors of the building
– Avoid traveling on flooded streets
– Stay away from electrical appliances
– Keep the contacts of emergency services and the Embassy of Ukraine in Spain at hand
4. If evacuation is necessary:
– Clearly follow the instructions of the rescuers
– Do not try to get to the car on your own if it is in a flooded area
– Help the elderly and families with children
5. Important contacts:
– Single emergency number in Spain: 112
– Embassy of Ukraine in Spain: +34 917 48 93 60 or +34 913 88 71 78.
We remind you! Taking out travel insurance for a trip to Spain is an important step that ensures safety during your stay abroad. Whether you are going on vacation or planning to work or live in Spain for a long time, choosing the right policy will help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provide access to medical care in any situation. Read when and who needs to take out insurance in Spain in our previous article.
Photo: Gregorio Marrero / Associated Press
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2024, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
Frequantly
asked questions
Where is the flooding in Spain?
Has Barcelona been affected by flooding?
Which country was most affected by the floods?
Recommended articles
2 min
For refugeesThis year, Spain continues to accept Ukrainian refugees and grant them temporary protection status until March 2025. Find out more about the rules of entry, stay, the procedure for obtaining temporary protection in Spain in 2024 and what assistance Ukrainians can expect
20 Jul. 2024
More details2 min
InsuranceCompulsory car insurance in Spain: what Ukrainians need to know
There are several types of insurance in Spain, which differ in coverage and conditions. Find out more about car insurance in Spain and whether Ukrainians need to take out a local policy
24 Jul. 2024
More details2 min
DocumentsDigital nomad visa to Spain for Ukrainians: everything you need to know to move
Digital Nomad visa to Spain opens up opportunities for long-term residence and work in the country. Find out how to obtain such a visa, as well as about the peculiarities of tax policy, income requirements, and the benefits of living in Spain
10 Oct. 2024
More details3 min
PopularThe mild and temperate climate of Spain, as well as its well-developed infrastructure and favourable geographical location, contribute to the fact that foreigners choose the country as a place for long-term or even permanent residence. Currently, there are more than 300,000 Ukrainians in Spain, including military refugees and labour migrants. Find out how a Ukrainian can emigrate to Spain, including obtaining a visa, residence permit and work permit
13 Oct. 2024
More details