Local officials reported that at least 62 individuals lost their lives due to heavy rainfall that caused sudden flooding in eastern Spain on Tuesday, submerging roads and towns.

Rescue teams navigated the floodwaters in Valencia using small boats under the cover of darkness, saving several stranded individuals as seen in images from Utiel, while emergency services continued their efforts to reach the most affected locations.

Carlos Mazon, the Valencia regional leader, noted that some residents were still stuck in remote areas that were difficult to access.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez addressed the nation and expressed solidarity with those searching for missing loved ones, stating, “The entire country mourns with you.”

Promising to aid the communities devastated by the floods, he said, “We will work together to restore your streets, squares, and bridges.”

Mazon clarified at a press conference that the delays in rescue efforts were not due to a lack of resources or willingness but rather due to accessibility issues, stating that reaching some areas was “completely impossible.”

Numerous videos circulated on social media showing individuals trapped by rising waters, with some resorting to climbing trees for safety. Rescue footage depicted workers using a bulldozer’s bucket to transport several women to safety.

Flooding resulted in the cancellation of trains to Madrid and Barcelona, while schools and essential services were halted in areas severely affected, as reported by officials.

Spain’s meteorological agency indicated that the region experienced approximately 40 to 50 gallons of rain per square yard, with forecasters predicting the storm’s movement toward northern and northwestern Spain. Rainfall is anticipated to persist until at least Thursday.