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

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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.

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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

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