"Floods in Spain: Accountability and Lessons for a World at Risk"

The devastating flash floods that swept through southern and eastern Spain in October serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability even advanced nations experience in the face of natural disasters. In a tragic turn of events, the Valencia region endured unprecedented rainfall, with numerous areas receiving over 300 liters per square meter. In Chiva, the rainfall peaked at 491 liters per square meter in just eight hours—the equivalent of an entire year’s rainfall in a single night. As the world watched in shock, torrents of water surged through cities, leaving destruction in their wake and claiming over 220 lives, with dozens more missing and thousands forced from their homes. This disaster, the deadliest flash flood in a European nation since Portugal’s 1967 catastrophe, not only highlights the immense cost of underestimating nature but also poses urgent questions about preparedness and governance. These floods are not just an environmental tragedy; they underscore the pressing need for resilient infrastructure and decisive action as we confront an increasingly unpredictable climate.