Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has pledged nearly €2.3 billion ($2.4 billion) in new aid to support areas devastated by last month’s floods. Speaking to parliament on Wednesday, Sanchez defended his government’s response to the disaster, which struck on October 29, killing at least 229 people and causing massive destruction, particularly in the eastern region of Valencia.
The floods left roads washed away, homes and businesses destroyed, and sparked public anger over how authorities managed the crisis. The disaster has fueled a political blame game between Sanchez’s government and the conservative-led regional administration of Valencia.
Political Fallout Over Flood Management
Under Spain’s decentralized system, regions manage disaster responses. However, Sanchez criticized Valencia’s regional government for delays in coordinating emergency efforts and issuing public alerts.
“The question is whether the Spanish government fulfilled its responsibilities. The answer is yes, from the outset and for as long as necessary,” Sanchez stated.
Carlos Mazon, head of the Valencia regional government and a member of the opposition Popular Party (PP), accused the central government of providing late and inaccurate weather forecasts. He also faced backlash for attending a lengthy lunch during the disaster, while emergency alerts were issued after flooding had already started in some areas.
Sanchez rejected claims of insufficient state action, emphasizing that national agencies, including the weather office AEMET, had issued warnings about heavy rainfall days in advance. He said, “The system has not failed, but certain individuals in key positions have not lived up to their responsibilities,” in what appeared to be a direct critique of Mazon.
Massive Aid Package Announced
To support those affected, Sanchez unveiled a new package of 60 measures worth €2.3 billion, raising total aid to €16.6 billion. Key measures include:
- €465 million for replacing damaged vehicles.
- €19 million for replacing textbooks and school materials.
These efforts aim to assist individuals and rebuild affected areas.
Public Outrage and Protests
The public response to the floods has led to widespread protests. On November 9, 130,000 people gathered in Valencia city, demanding accountability and better crisis management. Additional demonstrations are planned for this weekend.
Sanchez expressed openness to creating a parliamentary commission to review the flood response but argued that “it’s not yet the right time.” Opposition leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo accused Sanchez of avoiding accountability, saying, “What a lack of humanity and humility.”
Economic Impact
The floods are expected to reduce Spain’s GDP by 0.2 percentage points in the fourth quarter, according to the Bank of Spain. As the country rebuilds, the political and economic effects of the disaster continue to unfold.
