‘Baby among 62 dead’ after flash floods in Spain as 1,000 soldiers deployed – latest

We’re hearing reports that a baby is among the 52 people who have been confirmed dead by authorities following the flash flooding.

Torrential rain turned streets into rivers and left many trapped in their homes as the water levels rose last night. This morning’s pictures of cars swept up on the roadside and electricity lines down show the devastation caused.

On the outskirts of the city of Valencia, the towns of Torrent, Paiporta and Chiva appear to have been among the worst hit, as Spanish soldiers respond to help rescue efforts.

In Paiporta, it’s been reporting this morning that there were four bodies discovered, including two men, a woman and baby. In Torrent, five were people were found dead.

Videos have been shared on social media showing some of the conditions in Valencia last night, as the region was hit by torrential rain that led to flash flooding.

This video appears to show motorists sheltering at a petrol stations as debris is swirls around outside.

The author of the post on X, formerly Twitter, writes: “Another video of one of the tornadoes that have affected the Valencia area.”

More now from Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, who has addressed those living in the towns and cities left devastated by the flooding.

He says the country could turn to the European Union for support on what will ultimately be a huge recovery project.

He says: “Behind all of this damage there are decades of efforts and projects that have been put into uncertainty, but please know that we will help you with all of the state resourses and, if necessary the European Union, so that could can move forwrad, so that you can rebuild your homes and lives as quickly as possible.”

The German government has already offered its help.

“We are in direct contact with the Spanish government as to whether there should be support from Germany for this terrible disaster,” a spokesperson in Berlin said.

Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish prime minister, is continuing to hold a news briefing on the flash floods.

He says: “Our thoughts go out to those whose homes and possessions have been devastated and whose lives have been covered in mud.

“We are united and we will rebuild your streets and your squares and bridges.”

Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez is now speaking on the flash flooding in his country.

He starts by explaining that dozens of villages and towns have been flooded, while many bridges have been destroyed and roads cut off.

He says: “I would like to, on behalf of the government and the whole of Spanish society, convey all of our solidatory and condolences to the families of those who have died in this tragedy in the region of Valencia and Castilla La Mancha.

“To those who are still looking for lost ones, Spain weeps with all of you – our absolute priority is to help you.”

Earlier we reported that authorities had confirmed a death toll of 51 following the flash floods on Tuesday, that has now risen to 52.

The central government office for Castilla La Mancha region has said an 88-year-old woman was found dead in the city of Cuenca following the extreme weather.

Cuenca is situated between Valencia and Madrid and has a population of around 55,000 people.

Valencia CF were due to play Parla Escuela in Madrid tonight – but we’ve just heard that the game has been postponed.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Valencia CF said the rearrangement was the “most appropriate measure due to the terrible consequences of the weather phenomenon experienced in the Valencia region”.

A spokesperson added that people should avoid travelling at this time.

In an earlier post, the club sent its “sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who died” in the flooding.

It continued: “Much strength to all the neighbours and affected populations and to the groups that are working on the prevention and consequences of the effects of the storm. The club is at the disposal of the authorities and the affected municipalities to help in any way possible.”

As operations continue to search for those missing and clear up the damage left by the flooding, we’re hearing that trains to the cities of Madrid and Barcelona have been cancelled.

Schools and “other essential services” have also been suspended in the worst-hit areas.

Lower house Speaker Francine Armengol said Wednesday’s parliamentary session would be called off because of the disaster.

If you have been impacted by the flooding in Spain, or know someone who has, contact alexander.ross@independent.co.uk

We’re hearing more from communities devastated by the flooding last night.

In the suburb of Barrio de la Torre in Valencia, bar owner Christian Viena said: “The neighbourhood is destroyed, all the cars are on top of each other, it’s literally smashed up.

“Everything is a total wreck, everything is ready to be thrown away. The mud is almost 30 centimetres deep.”