An additional 500 soldiers are being sent to the Valencia region amid growing criticism from residents regarding the local authorities' handling of severe flooding. The death toll has surpassed 200, predominantly in and around Valencia, and is expected to increase as rescue efforts continue. Heavy rainfall that commenced on Monday resulted in devastating floods that destroyed infrastructure, including bridges, and left towns buried in mud. This has isolated many communities, cutting off access to essential resources like water, food, and electricity.

Thousands have traveled to affected rural areas to assist with cleanup operations. However, authorities announced on Friday that traffic restrictions would be imposed over the weekend to facilitate the movement of emergency responders. Weather alerts are still in effect for northeastern and southern Spain until Sunday, with additional warnings issued for the Balearic Islands for Saturday.

Currently, approximately 1,700 soldiers are engaged in search and rescue missions throughout Valencia, although hopes of locating more survivors are diminishing. Emergency teams are concentrating on removing water from underground tunnels and parking garages where individuals may have become trapped.

Journalist Paco Polit noted that the influx of new troops would provide vital heavy machinery such as bulldozers and trucks, enhancing the efficiency and organization of rescue operations. Local officials have faced backlash over their slow response time and failure to issue timely warnings before the floods struck.

Amparo Andres, a shop owner in Valencia for four decades, recounted her harrowing experience as floodwaters reached neck height inside her store. “I’m grateful to be alive, but I’ve lost everything—my business and my home,” she shared. Meanwhile, resident Juan Pérez lamented the loss of his family memories tied to his home.

The civil protection agency issued emergency alerts to residents after floodwaters were already rising rapidly on Tuesday evening. Juan González from Aldaia criticized local government inaction regarding flash flooding risks. In Paiporta, where over 60 fatalities have been reported, residents expressed frustration over slow aid delivery.

The federal government in Madrid also faces scrutiny for tardy military mobilization and rejecting an offer of assistance from France for firefighters. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez pledged comprehensive support for those impacted by this disaster.

Volunteers organized through social media have mobilized significant numbers to assist with cleanup efforts in Valencia. Local leaders announced traffic restrictions starting Saturday morning to ensure emergency services could operate effectively.

Looting incidents have been reported as desperation rises among some residents. Areas throughout southern Spain, including Huelva and Cartaya, have also experienced heavy rainfall leading to evacuations. The flooding’s severity has been exacerbated by a dry year that left the ground unable to absorb such rainfall efficiently.

According to meteorological reports, Chiva near Valencia received its annual average rainfall within just eight hours on Tuesday. Climate change is believed to have intensified these weather events; scientists estimate that recent rainfall was 12% heavier than it would typically be under normal conditions. Recent floods have resulted in more than 200 deaths with ongoing search efforts for those still unaccounted for.