At least 51 people have died in Spain from devastating flash floods, authorities say
Associated PressNov 02
Deadly Floods Strike Spain
Above: A Prosegur truck is seen through the flooded streets near Monumento a las Hermandades y Cofradías de Jerez as heavy rain and flooding hit large parts of the country on Oct. 30, 2024, in Cadiz, Spain. Image copyright: Juan Carlos Toro/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Over 150 people have died following severe flooding in eastern and southern Spain. The worst hit was eastern Valencia, which endured a historic "cold drop," or when autumnal cold air from the north moves over the warm water of the Mediterranean.
It was reportedly the country's worst natural disaster in decades, with areas like Barrio de la Torre experiencing a year's worth of rainfall in eight hours, cars stacked on top of each other, trees uprooted, downed powerlines, and damaged infrastructure.
The Spin
Narrative A
Despite weather reports warning of immediate danger, many people didn't receive emergency alerts until they were trapped in their cars and homes. There needs to be an investigation as to whether the government could have issued alerts earlier, closed down public services, and canceled classes. A probe of early warning protocols is warranted.
Narrative B
While criticism of the local government is understandable, it's important to recognize how unprecedentedly fast this storm appeared. Thanks to climate change, the "cold drop" phenomenon was exacerbated by the warming ocean temperatures, which allowed for such an unusual amount of rainfall in just eight hours. These storms will continue until climate change is addressed.
Narrative C
This was the result of ignored infrastructure needs and poor urban planning, not climate change. Following a flood in 1957, Valencia took profound action by diverting the Turia River to prevent future flooding. Sadly, it then allowed unchecked development in flood-prone zones, resulting in tragedies like this. Valencia has dealt with flooding for centuries, so blaming climate change will do nothing but let politicians off the hook for their dismal mismanagement.