Flash floods in southeast Spain have left 62 dead, rescuers report

At least 62 people have died in flash floods in southeastern Spain, according to the Valencia regional government. Some areas received up to 12 inches of rain within a few hours on Tuesday, leading to severe flooding in the city of Valencia, where muddy water engulfed streets and swept away cars.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez vowed to provide all necessary assistance to flood victims and urged vigilance as the crisis unfolds. Valencia’s regional leader, Carlos Mazón, noted that rescue teams found bodies in previously inaccessible areas, but out of respect for families, no further details were shared. The death toll is expected to rise, as current figures are considered provisional. Residents in Valencia and Castellón were advised to avoid road travel.

One driver, Beatriz Garrote, described her terrifying experience of being trapped on a flooded ring road for hours. She recounted the rapid rise of water around her car, expressing her fear as the situation escalated.

Chiva, just east of Valencia, recorded 320 millimeters (12.6 inches) of rain in over four hours, while other areas, including Murcia and Malaga, faced significant flooding as well. Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events to climate change.

Rainfall warnings remain in effect for parts of eastern and southern Spain, with heavy rain expected to persist through the week.