Misery in Valencia: Spanish Rescuers Intensify Search in Flooded Car Parks

The devastating floods in Valencia, which have claimed the lives of at least 217 people, have prompted rescuers to intensify their search in underground car parks and garages in Aldaia, where victims may be trapped. With severe weather warnings still in effect, public outrage over government response has escalated, leading to protests against Spanish authorities.

In the aftermath of last week’s catastrophic floods, Spanish rescue divers are now focusing their efforts on underground parking facilities as they search for missing persons. The car park at the Bonaire shopping center in the town of Aldaia, which holds thousands of vehicles, has been reported as a key site in this operation. Unfortunately, initial inspections revealed no victims among the first 50 cars examined, according to Spanish news sources.

The region of Valencia experienced unprecedented rainfall, equivalent to an entire year’s worth of precipitation in just a matter of days, leading to widespread flash flooding. Tragically, many individuals have been trapped in their vehicles, drowning in underground garages and dangerous roadways. The grim search continues as hundreds remain unaccounted for, and the death toll is expected to rise, following the discovery of a British couple's bodies in their car.

Meanwhile, warnings from Spain's State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) indicate that the risk is not over, as parts of northeastern Catalonia, including the city of Barcelona, are placed on red alert for torrential rains. The devastation has prompted local authorities to impose travel restrictions, cancel school sessions, and advise citizens to work from home to facilitate the mobilization of emergency services.

Public frustration is mounting over what many perceive to be a lack of timely warnings and adequate support from the government during this natural disaster. Emotions boiled over last Sunday, as protesters confronted King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia during a visit to Paiporta, a town severely affected by the flooding. Projectiles were thrown at the royal couple, as well as at Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who was subsequently evacuated for safety.

The government has since launched an investigation into the incidents of violence linked to the protests, with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska attributing the unrest to "marginal groups." As rescue operations continue amid ongoing weather warnings and calls for accountability, the people of Valencia are left dealing with the fallout of a disaster that has deeply impacted their lives and communities.