The number of victims of the floods in Spain is staggering. That makes 205 people and dozens more are still wanted. “My husband went out to get the car and never came back.” “I ran away from the house because the water came up to my neck.” Terrible relationships. Heavy rain and sudden flood. Residents ask why no one warned them about the flood in advance.
Eight people died in a garage on the outskirts of Valencia due to heavy flooding. The funeral home workers exhume their bodies.
– I am happy that I am alive, because I know how many people died. Many people do not know where their relatives are and I understand their pain, says Carmen Molina.
Emergency services are still searching garages and basements. The soldiers are helping to get the water out. Officials fear the death toll will rise as dozens of people are still missing. Those who survived remember how they saved themselves when the elements attacked.
– I couldn't find the key to the door because of my nerves, finally I found in the kitchen that the water was already up to my neck. I opened the gate, then the neighbors managed to catch me, held each other and threw a rope at me. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be telling this story, says Isabel Seradilla.
READ ALSO: More than 200 deaths. “I'm so thankful to be alive” – My husband went to get the car and couldn't get home. The current carried away everything, hitting the walls with garbage cans and cars. Imagine how terrifying it was, says Maria Pena, a resident of Paiort.
The water has already receded, revealing the extent of the destruction. Many bridges have been destroyed and 75,000 homes are still without power. Rescuers have not yet reached many people.
– The worst is yet to come. Where I live, nothing is brought, food is not taken. To buy bread, it is necessary to travel at least 15 kilometers, says Rafael Lopez, a resident of Valencia region.
Damage in Spain after rain Reuters
Residents have a grudge against the authorities
The services began to remove the damaged vehicles that were swept away by the flood wave. Volunteers walk into flooded areas to help those who have lost everything.
– I came here with a lot of people to clean up this mess, and it's wonderful. “Thousands of people are coming from Valencia, it's a huge corridor of people helping the victims of this terrible disaster,” said Bart, a Dutchman who lives in Valencia.
They not only help to clean. They bring food and water, but it is still not enough.
– Many people died here. What else needs to be said? We need help. No matter how much it is, we need more. We can't even repair the damage in a month or two, says Amber Gonzalez, a resident of Paiporta.
Angry residents are angry with the authorities for not warning them of the impending disaster. – There were places where it was already pouring at five o'clock in the afternoon. Why did they wait to send a warning not to go home until eight o'clock in the evening? – asks Hector Bolivar, a resident of Valencia.
Main photo source: Reuters
