A devastating flash flood has left a trail of destruction after torrential rain suddenly sent powerful currents through streets, homes and businesses, killing a 102-year-old woman and forcing emergency crews to carry out around 90 rescues.
The flooding struck after an extraordinary amount of rain fell in a short period, with 142 liters of water recorded per square meter in about two and a half hours. The sheer volume of water rapidly overwhelmed the town, flooding streets and forcing residents to seek help as conditions deteriorated.
The 102-year-old woman was found dead inside her home after floodwater rose to more than a meter, or over three feet, inside the property.
Emergency teams carried out roughly 90 rescues during the afternoon and early evening, primarily helping people trapped inside homes affected by the rising water.
The force of the flooding also swept vehicles through the streets, leaving cars piled on top of one another as muddy water rushed through the community. Video and photographs showed residents stranded and streets transformed into fast-moving rivers, highlighting the speed and power of the sudden flooding.
Authorities activated an emergency response plan as crews worked through the night to rescue residents, remove damaged vehicles and begin clearing mud and debris. Several roads were temporarily closed because of the flooding, while emergency officials warned people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from flooded areas.
The disaster came as severe thunderstorms and torrential rain affected several parts of eastern and central Spain, with authorities continuing to monitor the dangerous weather and the possibility of further heavy rainfall.Authorities activated an emergency response as crews worked to rescue residents and clear mud and debris. The deadly flooding struck in Spain, as severe storms brought torrential rain across parts of the country.