Valencian officials warned of flood risk
The Valencian regional government was alerted five days prior to a devastating storm in 2024 that posed a significant flood risk, yet the event resulted in 230 fatalities. An internal emergencies report, obtained by EL PAÍS, reveals that warnings were issued on social media, but the disaster still occurred.
The government's emergency department report, now part of an ongoing investigation, indicates that seven warnings were posted on social media during a four-hour lunch attended by former regional president Carlos Mazón and journalist Maribel Vilaplana. The catastrophic flood struck on October 29, 2024, despite these warnings. The report is being examined by Judge Nuria Ruiz Tobarra in Catarroja, Valencia, as part of the case file. The investigation aims to determine the effectiveness of the government's response and the circumstances surrounding the high death toll.
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Highlights
Early warning of flood risk
The Valencian government knew about the flood risk five days before the storm.
Social media warnings issued
The government warned the public on social media on October 24, 2024.
High-level lunch during crisis
Valencian officials issued warnings during a lunch attended by high-profile figures.
Ongoing investigation
The report is part of an ongoing investigation into the disaster.
Catastrophic flood impact
The storm resulted in 230 deaths despite the warnings.