Thursday, October 31, 2024

Spain floods latest: People ‘trapped like rats’ as deadly floods leave Valencia towns under water

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At least 51 people have been killed in Spain after flash floods struck parts of the country.

Torrential rains flooded roads and towns yesterday, resulting in cars being swept through streets, a train being derailed and damaged houses and buildings.

The authorities in the worst-hit areas had advised people to stay at home and avoid all non-essential travel.

Emergency services said at least 51 people have died in the floods affecting southeastern Spain.

Those killed, in the Valencia region, included children.

In Letur, near the Sierra de Segura, 30 people were trapped after the river running through the town burst its banks.

Dozens of videos shared on social media appeared to show people trapped in floodwaters, several of them hanging on to trees to avoid being swept away. Authorities used helicopters to rescue some residents from their homes.

Other videos shared by Spanish broadcasters showed floodwater rising into the lower levels of homes and even carrying cars through the street.

Radio and TV stations received hundreds of calls for help from people trapped in flooded areas or searching for loved ones, as emergency services were unable to reach all affected locations.

Transport was severely affected by the flooding.

A high-speed train with almost 300 people on board was derailed near Malaga, but authorities said no one was hurt.

Rail lines elsewhere were also disrupted.

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