Spain's Deadliest Floods in Decades: A Citrus Region in Crisis

Spain grapples with its deadliest flooding in 30 years as torrents batter Valencia, claiming at least 62 lives. Rescuers work tirelessly amid the devastation, while authorities warn of difficult access to the worst-hit areas. The economic impact on Valencia’s crucial citrus industry is anticipated to be severe.

Spain is reeling from its most lethal flooding in three decades after torrential rains unleashed havoc across the eastern region of Valencia, leaving at least 62 people dead. Local authorities reported on Wednesday that roads and towns remain submerged as emergency services strive to reach the worst-hit areas.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, in a televised address, expressed solidarity with those affected, promising to rebuild devastated villages and towns. Regional leader Carlos Mazon highlighted the challenge of inaccessible locations, emphasizing that difficulties in reaching survivors were due to access issues, not a lack of resources.

The disaster has also disrupted transportation, with train services to major cities like Madrid and Barcelona being canceled. As the region braces for the economic fallout, particularly on its crucial citrus industry, experts link such extreme weather events to climate change, cautioning that such calamities are becoming increasingly frequent.

(With inputs from agencies.)