Islamic Relief Spain is distributing essential items and helping with the clear up following the country’s worst natural disaster in living memory.
Severe flooding from Storm Dana has killed at least 218 people and caused damage to infrastructure in southeastern Spain.
The province of Valencia has been most heavily impacted, with the localities of Utiel and Chiva experiencing a year’s rainfall in just a few hours.
Elsewhere, Cuenca, Albacete and Malaga have also been impacted. While on Monday 4 November, flooding was also reported in Barcelona.
Heavy rains last week created flash floods which flooded homes and swept away cars and bridges.
Affected people remain without electricity and are in desperate need of aid, with many roads still blocked.
With at least 89 people confirmed missing, it is likely that the death toll will rise.
‘It’s like a war or a tsunami has struck’
Hassna, a volunteer with Islamic Relief who is delivering aid in Paiporta, the worst-hit part of Valencia, describes the scenes she has witnessed:
“It’s as if a catastrophe of great magnitude has occurred, as if a war or a tsunami has struck. Paiporta is in a state of total destruction.
“As you enter Paiporta, you see massive destruction and incredibly shocking scenes. Cars are completely destroyed, houses flooded, walls collapsed, and even on the farms the police have to warn people to stay away because everything could collapse at any moment.”
Local authorities and rescue teams continue to expand their search and rescue efforts, supported by a community of volunteers from across Spain.
“Cleanup is an ongoing challenge due to the persistent presence of water and mud, and the city’s reconstruction will be a lengthy process given the extent of the damage.” Hassna continues.
“It’s so heartbreaking to witness this.”
Islamic Relief Spain steps up to help at home
Islamic Relief Spain is supporting people affected by the flooding with essential items, including food, water, and clothing in Paiporta. The team is also providing items to help people keep clean and care for babies.
We have also been helping with the clean-up operations in both Paiporta and Picanya, also located in the province of Valencia.
Islamic Relief Spain is working with local authorities, mosques, universities and other non-governmental organisations to continue collecting and distributing these necessary items. Plans are underway to expand this response to other affected areas.
The devastated people of Spain need your help. Please help Islamic Relief Spain reach as many people as possible. Donate to their appeal today.