Shovels for digging, food and water: these are the first needs of those affected by the floods in the Valencia area. Thousands of citizens are organizing themselves into caravans on foot to bring aid to the most devastated areas, as reported by La Vanguardia and other media. The volunteers are moving mainly from Valencia to the hinterland, touching on places such as Sedaví, Alfafar, Paiporta, Picanya, Albal and Catarroja. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his recognition in X for the work of the volunteers and public servants, stressing that solidarity in times of crisis is essential.

Meanwhile, the army has been mobilized to support the affected communities. However, the regional emergency services coordination center has issued a warning: despite gratitude towards the volunteers, it is important to avoid traveling to the affected areas to avoid clogging the roads and allow relief efforts to operate without obstacles.

In Picanya, one of the places most affected by the flood, dozens of migrants have started cooking in the streets. Among the rubble, mud and vehicles damaged by the flood, makeshift barbecues have been set up where they prepare typical dishes from different cultures. This food is intended for local people who lost everything due to the flood. These migrants are also displaced; they lived in a hotel that was submerged by the waters and come from countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, Georgia and Venezuela. They have obtained permission from the hotel owner to use the food present in the pantry of the dining room and cook it for those in need.

They offer meals to anyone who passes by, changing the menu depending on the chef at the time. A Venezuelan man told local media: “When there is a need to help, there are no differences anymore. We have no electricity or water but we are grateful to have survived and we just want to do our part.” In this way, even in the midst of the devastation, a strong community spirit and solidarity is manifested among those affected by the tragedy.