Nationwide protests in Spain over response to fatal flooding disaster

Tens of thousands of protesters marched across Spain, criticizing the government’s handling of severe floods that killed over 220 people, mainly in Valencia, and buried towns in mud.

Protests erupted in Valencia and other cities, where people condemned the delayed response and lack of early warnings for flash floods that affected around 80 towns and cities.

In Valencia, protesters marched to the city hall, chanting “Murderers!” and carrying signs blaming Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Valencia’s Regional President Carlos Mazon. Tensions were high, with reports of scuffles between demonstrators and police.

Citizens voiced frustration over late alerts, with some saying they received warnings only after the floods began. Julian Garcia, a 75-year-old protester, argued that timely alerts could have saved lives by advising people to avoid travel or sending kids to school.

As clean-up efforts continue and authorities search for missing people in Valencia, protesters are demanding accountability. Some accuse leaders of mishandling the crisis, calling it negligence that led to deaths. Ana de la Rosa, a protester, criticized political disputes between local and national leaders and called for real accountability.

Meanwhile, health officials have urged local governments to take steps to prevent mosquito-borne diseases in the flood-affected areas.