Spain's Flood Disaster: A Nation in Crisis

Spain grapples with devastating floods south of Valencia, leading to over 200 deaths and a massive recovery effort. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez pledges €10.6 billion in aid, including direct handouts and loans. Authorities face criticism for response delays amid ongoing efforts to locate missing persons.

Spain's national guard has urged families of those missing in deadly floods to provide DNA samples for body identification, as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez outlines a €10.6 billion aid package.

The floods, spurred by torrential rains, have claimed over 200 lives, primarily impacting Valencia, Castile La Mancha, and Andalusia. Streets became rivers, sweeping away cars and infrastructure and displacing civilians.

Despite criticism over the response time, Sanchez emphasizes mobilization efforts, deploying police, military, and experts. Controversy continues over delayed warnings, with regional leaders and agencies shifting blame for the communication breakdown.

(With inputs from agencies.)