The flood caused by the rains torrential rains twelve days ago in the Spanish Mediterranean province of Valencia swept away between four and five million cubic meters of mud, according to the Ministry of Ecological Transition.
A team from the Higher Council of Scientific Research and the Geological and Mining Institute is looking for where to deposit all that mud, probably in a disused quarry with low permeability.
The vast majority of the sludge, ministerial sources point out, corresponds to drifts of uncontaminated agricultural land and material mixed with household goods and automobiles, which are easily classified.
However, there are other sludges (mixed with sewage or from industrial waste) that will require prior treatment.
65 municipalities still without drinking water due to the flood
As a result of the devastating flood, the networks of the integral water cycle of the province of Valencia show damages exceeding 331 million euros (354 million dollars, according to the first calculations of public administrations and operators in the sector, compiled by the Ministry of Ecological Transition.
The torrential rains and the subsequent flood, which caused at least 214 deaths and countless material damages, according to provisional data, left more than 600,000 people in 78 municipalities without water supply, a number now reduced to just over 7,000 users.
However, in 60 municipalities the recommendation to boil water before consumption is maintained and in another five it is not drinkable in any case.
There are also sewage problems in 34 locations, especially in small collectors, many of them clogged. And 122 treatment plants in the province have suffered damages of varying degrees.
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**Interview with Dr. Elena Martínez, Environmental Scientist**
**Editor:** Dr. Martínez, thank you for joining us. We’ve just learned that the torrential rains in Valencia have had devastating effects, with millions of cubic meters of mud swept away. Can you explain the environmental implications of such a flood?
**Dr. Martínez:** Thank you for having me. The ecological consequences of such a significant flood are profound. The displacement of four to five million cubic meters of mud can lead to soil erosion, altering local ecosystems and potentially harming flora and fauna. Additionally, the sediment can alter river courses and affect water quality downstream.
**Editor:** What are the immediate steps that the authorities need to take in response to this disaster?
**Dr. Martínez:** Immediate response is crucial. Authorities should focus on stabilizing the affected areas to prevent further erosion and contamination. It’s also essential to assess the damage to infrastructure and natural habitats and to start the process of cleaning up the debris while ensuring the safety of residents.
**Editor:** How can local communities prepare for future disasters like this one?
**Dr. Martínez:** Community preparedness is vital. Local authorities should engage residents in flood risk assessments and education about emergency protocols. Investing in infrastructure resilience, like better drainage systems and flood barriers, can significantly mitigate future risks.
**Editor:** Lastly, how does this event compare to previous flooding incidents in the region?
**Dr. Martínez:** Valencia has a history of intense weather events. However, the frequency and intensity of these floods seem to be increasing, possibly linked to climate change. This phenomenon emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies in all Mediterranean regions.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Martínez, for shedding light on the situation in Valencia. We hope the region can recover swiftly from this disaster.
**Dr. Martínez:** Thank you for having me, and let’s hope for a robust response and recovery.
