Mar 12 • 15:23 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The Valencian Government was aware five days before the 'dana' of the risk in flood-prone areas

The Valencian Government was aware of the risk of severe weather impacting flood-prone areas five days prior to the devastating 'dana' event.

The Valencian Government received a warning five days before a significant weather event, known as the 'dana', which was predicted to cause severe flooding in vulnerable areas. This warning came from the autonomous emergency department and highlighted the expected dangers, including the risk of torrential rain sweeping away debris. Despite this, the government under Carlos Mazón only communicated the risk to the public through social media on October 24, 2024, just five days before the tragic occurrence that left 230 dead in Valencia.

The report accessed by El País is a critical piece of evidence in the ongoing investigation into the government's handling of the emergency. It counters the narrative of an 'informational blackout,' which suggested that the government did not act because it lacked information about the scale of the incoming storm. Instead, the findings indicate that there was prior knowledge of the potential severity of the weather, raising questions about the adequacy of the government's response and the timeliness of their public warnings.

As the investigation continues, the document's revelations could have significant implications for emergency management practices in Spain, particularly in how governmental bodies communicate risks to the public. There is growing public scrutiny regarding the responsibility of local authorities in disaster preparedness and response, especially in light of the tragic consequences following the failure to adequately warn and prepare the population for the impending disaster.

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