At least 64 people have died in devastating floods in the Spanish regions of Valencia and Castilla-La Mancha, while many others are missing. The damage is extensive and the Spanish government has declared three days of national mourning. The authorities are unable to provide official data on the missing, as explained by the Minister of Territorial Policies, Ángel Víctor Torres, highlighting the seriousness of the situation after a meeting of the crisis unit activated to manage the emergency.

The heavy rains were caused by Dana, a meteorological phenomenon characterized by heavy rains and strong winds, which has hit Spain in the last 48 hours. Several localities have been cut off by the waters, forcing the Valencian Community to activate a telephone number to report missing relatives.

This atmospheric phenomenon has also hit Italy in the previous weeks, leading to similar situations. Gianni Messeri, meteorologist of the Lamma Consortium, explained that it is a stationary depression circulation that causes intense rains for prolonged periods.

The damage is not limited to the Valencia area; Jerez de la Frontera was also hit by a waterspout that flooded streets and caused serious traffic disruption in Seville. A resident of Algemesí described the anguish she experienced during the emergency, with waters that entered her garage with force.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with Spain in this difficult moment and addressed a thought to the families of the victims. The Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia also suffered significant damage that could affect the next MotoGP race.

The Spanish meteorological agency recorded extraordinary rainfall in several areas; in some areas over 300 liters per square meter fell in a few hours. King Felipe VI expressed his grief for the victims and thanked the rescuers for their efforts.

Spanish authorities have said the priority is to help those searching for their loved ones and rebuild the affected areas. Rescue teams are working tirelessly in the flooded areas using rubber dinghies to reach trapped residents. The situation remains critical with several missing and a growing number of confirmed victims, while the government mobilizes resources to address this unprecedented emergency.