On October 29, 2024, heavy rains in Southern and Eastern Spain led to the overflow of rivers and channels, causing devastating floods and the loss of more than 200 lives. A lack of rainfall throughout the year, which left the ground in many affected areas unable to absorb rainwater efficiently, was a key factor in this historic flooding. The destruction of local infrastructure in the affected regions has made travel and rescue efforts difficult. The impact of the flooding has been most significant in the regions of Valencia, Andalusia, Castile La Mancha and Catalonia, and the most urgent needs in these regions are food, clean drinking water, and emergency supplies.
Sources:
BBC: Spain’s PM orders 10,000 troops and police to flood-hit Valencia
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ced9l7799w9o
Reuters: Spain sends more troops to flood zone as public anger rises
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/spain-deploys-7500-troops-flood-zon...
Myriad USA is partnering with trusted local partners in their response efforts:
Caritas Spain:
Caritas Spain aims to promote the integral human development of all people and all communities, especially the poorest and most excluded. It acts before, during and after disasters to improve response capacity and achieve rapid recovery.
Its affiliate organization, Caritas Valencia, is providing food and other supplies such as masks, gloves and cleaning products in the most accessible areas affected by the flooding, such as Aldaya, Benetúser, Alfafar and Sedaví. Caritas Valencia has set up its own emergency committee, which will be responsible for carrying out an on-site analysis of the most important needs in order to formulate a response program and future reconstruction projects for the damaged areas.
Spanish Red Cross:
The Spanish Red Cross works to help people overcome acute or chronic situations that endanger their lives. It is collecting donations that will help mobilize resources to the flood- affected regions. Their response includes the distribution of hygiene kits, food, and blankets, along with providing shelter for displaced individuals.