Valencia Floods Spark Mass Protests Against Regional Leadership

Mass protests erupted in Valencia over regional authorities' response to devastating floods that killed over 220 people. Protesters demanded the resignation of regional leader Carlos Mazon, blaming him for delayed alerts. Demonstrators expressed anger over poor disaster management and accused officials of negligence.

Mass demonstrations occurred in Valencia after regional authorities' handling of floods, which claimed over 220 lives, incited public outcry. Protesters filled the city center demanding the resignation of regional leader Carlos Mazon, accusing the government of negligence and delayed response.

Angry residents accused Mazon of issuing flood alerts too late, contributing to massive destruction. While Mazon claimed earlier notifications could have mitigated the disaster, protesters decried the inadequate response, with many venting frustration by dumping mud outside government offices.

As tensions ran high, some protesters clashed with police, resulting in minor damages. Despite early storm warnings from national weather services, regional responses lagged behind local actions. Currently, about 80 people remain missing in what is Europe's most lethal flood event in decades.

(With inputs from agencies.)