By Natalia Rueda 
Valencia, Spain, has been left devastated and in mourning as a result of the heavy rains and floods that have ravaged the region over the past week. The death toll has risen to a shocking 200 and dozens of people are still missing, turning this weather disaster into a tragic human crisis.
Known as the DANA (Depression Isolated in Levels of the High Atmosphere), this extreme weather event has caused irreparable damage to the province of Valencia. The images that have emerged from the region are indisputable proof of the immense devastation and suffering that this storm has brought upon its inhabitants.
The Spanish Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, announced the recruitment of an additional 500 soldiers to join the 1,700 members of the Military Emergency Unit (UME) and over 2,500 agents from the National Police and Civil Guard in the search and rescue efforts. Such a massive mobilization of resources is an urgent and necessary response to this catastrophe.
Este video de Valencia parece sacado de una película apocalíptica pic.twitter.com/5fvMkrqzI4
— Somos Cosmos (@InformaCosmos) October 30, 2024
But the tragic impact of this disaster goes beyond the numbers. The loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods is immeasurable. The psychological toll on survivors, who have lost loved ones, homes, and possessions, is overwhelming
Strong appeals to help the victims of the disaster have emerged from all corners of society. There is already a lot of information on where to make financial donations to help those affected, among them in Valencia and Castilla-La Mancha.
Missing Colombians
The Colombian community in Valencia, comprised of nearly 100,000 residents in the region, is facing a serious situation. The president of Colombia has reported that 32 Colombians are missing, and one person has been confirmed dead. In addition, hundreds of individuals are without access to basic necessities such as electricity, water and food, while their homes and belongings have been devastated.
As the world faces the devastating consequences of extreme weather events, it is critical that governments take decisive action to address climate change. Global cooperation is necessary to address this crisis.