Spanish Government Mobilizes Extensive Support for Valencia After Devastating Storm

In the wake of the severe storm known as the 'dana' that has battered the Valencia region, the Spanish government has launched a comprehensive response to aid in the recovery efforts. This initiative involves the active participation of several key ministers and various government agencies.

Immediate Response and Coordination

On Monday, November 4, 2024, the Spanish government announced the formation of five groups of work in collaboration with the Generalitat of Valencia. These groups are designed to provide all necessary human, logistical, and economic resources to support the affected areas. The ministers involved in these groups include:

• Mónica García, Minister of Health
• Óscar Puente, Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility
• Pablo Bustinduy, Minister of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs
• Isabel Rodríguez, Minister of Housing
• Yolanda Díaz, Vice President and Minister of Labour
• Carlos Cuerpo, Minister of Economy
• Fernando Grande-Marlaska, Minister of Interior

These ministers, along with other secretaries of state and technical experts, will work closely with the Valencian government to address the immediate needs of the region.

Priorities and Objectives

The primary focus of these groups is to save lives, recover the bodies of victims, and restore basic services and supplies. The government has emphasized its commitment to providing all necessary resources with the utmost speed and efficiency.

Impact of the Storm

The storm has left a significant mark on the region, with over 100,000 vehicles stranded on roads and in towns, necessitating a massive effort to clear and manage the situation. Several carreteras (highways) in Valencia and Castellón remain closed or impassable due to the heavy rainfall, including key routes such as the A-7, N-3, and various provincial roads.

Support Mechanisms

To manage the aftermath, the government has set up 69 points, including desguaces (scrap yards) and camps, where insurance experts can identify and assess the damaged vehicles. The Red de Empresas de Ayuda en Carretera (REAC) is coordinating the efforts with about 70 cranes and 100 personnel, working in tandem with the Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME) to clear the roads.

Additionally, the Dirección General de Educación y Calidad Ambiental of the Comunidad Valenciana has issued a resolution to temporarily lift the limits on the number of vehicles that can be received by desguaces, to help manage the large volume of affected vehicles.

Economic and Social Support

The economic impact is also being addressed, with the Consorcio de Compensación de Seguros receiving over 46,000 claims for compensation, half of which are related to vehicle damage. Each vehicle will be assigned a file to expedite the opening of a claim and facilitate the payment of indemnities.

This coordinated effort reflects the government's commitment to supporting the people of Valencia during this challenging time, ensuring that all necessary resources are mobilized to facilitate a swift and effective recovery.