My Tiny Feed

elmundo.es

Valencia's DANA Storm: Sewage Crisis and Governmental Dispute

The DANA storm in Valencia causes severe sewage issues, leading to a conflict between the regional and national governments over the response and resource allocation. International aid is being sought to resolve the crisis.

Read original article in Spanish

Spanish

Spain

HealthEuropean UnionGovernmentEmergencyFloodStormInternational Aid

CecopiCsicSpanish GovernmentValencian Regional GovernmentFemp

Rosa TourísCarlos MazónPilar BernabéEva Sanz

What are the challenges regarding the disposal of the removed sludge?: The disposal of the removed sludge is another major challenge due to the high water table. The CSIC is analyzing the sludge composition to determine appropriate storage locations, while local authorities like the mayor of Benetússer express concerns about the lack of nearby disposal sites.
What kind of international assistance is being provided to support this operation?: International assistance is being provided with pump trucks and personnel from Morocco, Portugal, and France to help with the removal of sludge. This additional support aims to alleviate the immense pressure on the current resources.
What is the main priority in managing the crisis caused by the DANA storm in Valencia?: The main priority in managing the crisis caused by the DANA storm in Valencia is unclogging the sewage system. This is due to health risks from accumulated sludge and water, and the impending risk of further flooding with the forecast of heavy rains.
What is the main conflict between the regional and central governments regarding this crisis?: The insufficient number of pump trucks to clear the sewage has caused a conflict between the Valencian regional government and the central government. While 58 trucks are currently operating, another hundred are needed; the regional government claims a delayed response to their request for assistance.
How did the request for assistance initially get misdirected, and how did that lead to further problems?: The request for assistance with pump trucks was initially made to the national emergency center, but it did not reach the appropriate authorities who held the necessary equipment. The central government claims it responded quickly once the request was properly directed.

Jan 22, 22:10

EU Excess Mortality Falls Despite Persistent Healthcare System Challenges

Excess mortality in the EU decreased to 5% in November 2024, down from 22,000 deaths compared to November 2023, despite ongoing healthcare system challenges including staff shortages and medicine supply issues; the EU's Essential Medicines Act is delayed.

Jan 22, 22:10

EU Excess Mortality Falls Despite Persistent Healthcare Shortages

Excess mortality in the EU decreased to 5% in November 2024, down 22,000 deaths from November 2023, despite ongoing healthcare challenges including staff shortages and medicine scarcity; 7 EU countries reported negative excess mortality, while 20 reported excess deaths; the Critical Medicines Act is delayed.

Jan 21, 01:09

EU Bans Bisphenol A from Food Contact Materials

The European Union banned Bisphenol A (BPA) from all food contact materials starting January 20, 2024, following a 2023 EFSA opinion citing health risks across all ages; the ban, years in the making, includes containers, bottles, and coatings, and may extend to other consumer products.

Jan 21, 01:09

EU Bans Bisphenol A in Food Contact Materials

The European Union banned Bisphenol A (BPA) in all food-contact materials starting January 20, 2024, following concerns about its endocrine-disrupting properties and links to health issues like breast cancer and diabetes; the ban, years in the making, covers various products including cans, containers, and plastics, and follows a 2023 EFSA opinion confirming health risks.