Death toll from Spain flash floods rises to 62, many missing

At least 62 people have died in flash floods affecting southeastern Spain, a spokesperson for the regional government of Valencia said on Wednesday.

An hour earlier, the death toll stood at 51 people, while rescue efforts were ongoing following the worst flash flood in Spain in three decades. 

The floods have significantly impacted several areas, particularly the small municipality of Letur in the province of Albacete, where six people were reported missing.

Rescue operations were underway, with emergency services working to reach those trapped by the rising waters. 

Footage shared on social media captures the chaos caused by the floods, showing vehicles being swept away and bridges collapsing.

Several cars are swept away by floods in Utiel of Valencia province, Spain 🇪🇸 (29.10.2024)

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— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) October 29, 2024

Emergency services received hundreds of calls from individuals seeking assistance or looking for missing loved ones.

Local officials, including Milagros Tolon, said drones were being used to search for the missing in Letur, emphasising the priority remains on locating individuals in distress.

Spain's state weather agency, AEMET, issued a red alert for the Valencia region and a secondary alert for parts of Andalusia.

In response to the crisis, Valencia city hall has suspended all schools and sporting events, and closed all parks.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his concern on social media, urging citizens to follow the authorities' guidance and to avoid unnecessary travel.

As rescue efforts continue, the situation remains critical, and further updates are expected as the recovery operations progress.