Heavy rainfall and flooding in Valencia

Following an orange weather alert for heavy rainfall, the Valencia City Council activated municipal emergency protocols to minimize mobility and ensure public safety. These preventive measures included the closure of parks, gardens, cemeteries, and libraries, as well as the suspension of outdoor sports and community events. Schools in flood-prone areas or districts previously affected by the 2024 DANA also suspended activities.

As the rainfall progressed, significant damage was reported in the Valencia metropolitan area. At the Bartolomé Cossío primary school in the Rascanya district, a wall collapsed after being struck by a tree branch. Other schools, such as CEIP Malva-rosa, reported damage that required the relocation of students within their facilities. In response, the local government convened the Local Operational Coordination Center (Cecopal). Mayor María José Catalá addressed criticisms regarding flood prevention, stating that the city has taken responsibility for cleaning riverbeds despite it not being their direct jurisdiction.

During the annual State of the City debate, the impact of recent heavy rainfall and the government’s response remained a point of political contention. While the administration highlighted its emergency protocols and proactive maintenance, opposition members from PSPV and Compromís questioned the government’s handling of weather-related incidents. Amidst these discussions, Mayor Catalá announced approximately 93 initiatives focused on housing, security, and environmental management, including the construction of 390 public homes and a heatwave resilience program.