Spain deploys 7,500 troops to flood zone
Reuters
Spain is deploying 7,500 troops to its eastern region after catastrophic floods claimed at least 217 lives, facing rising criticism over the government’s response.
About 5,000 soldiers arrived over the weekend to help distribute food and water, clear debris, and guard against looting, with 2,500 more troops joining them, Defense Minister Margarita Robles announced. A warship carrying marine troops and supplies was en route to Valencia, as heavy hail battered Barcelona, 300 km to the north.
On Monday, rescue teams searched parking garages, including a large 5,000-car lot at Bonaire shopping mall near Valencia, as well as river mouths where floodwaters may have carried bodies.
Most fatalities were recorded in Valencia, with over 60 deaths in the suburb of Paiporta. Many residents expressed anger over delayed flood warnings and a perceived slow response by authorities. During a visit to Paiporta, some residents threw mud at Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and King Felipe, shouting “murderers” in protest.
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