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Spain's Commitment to Recovery Amidst Devastating Floods

Wednesday 30 October 2024 - 16:00

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In a heartfelt address from La Moncloa, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed deep condolences for the victims of the recent catastrophic floods, known as "dana," which have tragically claimed 64 lives in Valencia and one in Cuenca. He pledged to mobilize "all necessary resources" to aid recovery efforts, emphasizing the government's solidarity with the affected families.

Sánchez stated, "Spain as a whole mourns with you. Our absolute priority is to assist you. Public administrations are working in coordination to do everything possible, and we will deploy all necessary means today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes to recover from this tragedy." This declaration followed his return from a trip to India.

In a direct message to those impacted, he assured, "We will not leave you alone; we will support you with all state resources, and if necessary, from the EU, to help you rebuild your homes and lives as quickly as possible." He is currently overseeing a crisis committee dedicated to monitoring the ongoing effects of the floods, which convened earlier in the week under the leadership of First Vice President María Jesús Montero.

The committee includes key ministers such as Yolanda Díaz, Teresa Ribera, and Fernando Grande-Marlaska, who are committed to working closely with regional leaders and mayors of the affected areas. Sánchez reiterated his ongoing communication with these officials, offering continuous support and collaboration.

As the situation remains precarious, the Prime Minister urged residents in affected regions to exercise extreme caution. "We must not let our guard down. The dana continues to wreak havoc. We cannot yet declare this devastating episode over," he warned. Areas under orange alert include Andalucía, Valencia, Aragón, Castilla y León, Cataluña, Extremadura, Navarra, La Rioja, and Ceuta, with yellow alerts in place for several others.

Sánchez's message was clear: avoid traveling on roads and stay away from ravines and riverbeds, adhering to the guidance of emergency services and security forces. "No one should put their life at risk. Our country has faced numerous civil protection emergencies in recent years, and Spain always rises to the occasion during crises like this," he concluded, calling for unity and support for those searching for loved ones or coping with loss.

This commitment to recovery and solidarity reflects Spain's resilience in the face of adversity, as the nation rallies together to support its citizens during this challenging time.