Thank you to everyone sharing updates on relief efforts and ways to contribute in the aftermath of this devastating flood. I’m working to keep the website updated in between live reporting from L’Horta Sud, one of the hardest-hit areas. Apologies if updates are slower than usual.
The level of devastation is staggering. It is surreal to cross the bridge from the inundated L’Horta Sud and find that life in central Valencia carries on as normal. Even as many surrounding communities continue to struggle without basic utilities like power and water and access to nearby food.
For those who would like to support flood recovery efforts, links for donating and volunteering can be found here and here.
One of the most significant ways you can help right now is to avoid non-essential travel in and around the affected areas. Traffic congestion is currently a major challenge, with roadways clogged, making it hard for emergency vehicles to reach those in need. For more information on transport disruptions, you can check some resources here.
It will be a long road to recovery. Exhausted residents shared their frustrations and one local councillor estimated it may take a week just to restore basic access in some streets. The cleanup and rebuilding ahead will be a huge community effort.
Yet, amid the hardship, the outpouring of community spirit has been remarkable. Volunteers are out in force, distributing food and water, while others have arrived with shovels, brooms, and boots to help clear debris.
These are challenging times, but it’s deeply moving to witness Valencia come together in the face of this catastrophe.