independent.co.uk
Spain's Deadly Flash Floods
Devastating flash floods in Spain, caused by the intensified "cold drop" weather phenomenon worsened by climate change, result in at least 217 deaths.
English
United Kingdom
Climate ChangeEuropean UnionSpainNatural DisasterWeatherFlooding
AemetSpanish Army
- What is the current death toll from the floods?
- The death toll from the flash floods has reached at least 217 people, with emergency services continuing their search for those still missing.
- How has climate change contributed to the floods?
- Climate change has intensified and increased the frequency of the cold drop phenomenon, resulting in more torrential rain and harder ground that cannot absorb excess water, worsening the impact of floods.
- What caused the devastating flash floods in Spain?
- The devastating flash floods in Spain, dubbed "the flood of the century", were caused by a weather phenomenon called the "cold drop" or DANA, which is worsened by climate change.
- What is the "cold drop" or DANA weather phenomenon?
- The cold drop is a weather system where cold air meets warm, moist air over the Mediterranean, creating vast rain clouds that can stay in one area for hours, increasing their destructive potential.
- What are the shortcomings of Valencia's flood defenses?
- Valencia's flood defenses are insufficient to handle such extreme weather events. The late warning issued by the civil protection service and inadequate drainage systems contributed to the tragedy.