Developments in the last few hours, November 5, 2024

Some statistics: 44000+ vehicles, 21,400+ houses and 2200+ commercial properties destroyed. Endless quantities of perishable goods have been ruined: 800,000 kilos in 32 locations, mostly fresh meat and fish shops as well as restaurants. Authorities have removed almost 3000 farm animal cadavers. Family Cash y MasyMas supermarket chains are donating food, hygiene and cleaning products. Amazon has an aid center at calle Luis García-Berlanga Martí 25 in Valencia for the distribution of food and other primary necessities. Of some 92 schools in the effected zones, 24 can re-open.

The Spanish government has announced direct aid of between 5,000 and 150,000 euros for self-employed workers and businesses, and 75% of guaranteed salary. Pensioners get an immediate 15% increase. Between 20,000 and 60,000 for house repair, 10,3000 for furnishing and appliances, up to 37,000 for residences for the elderly, and 72,000 if incapacitated.

The Metrobus authority (it manages the metro system) has created bus service to replace some of the metro lines. Regular metro service remains suspended. Here is the link https://www.lasprovincias.es/comunitat/lineas-metrobus-metro-recorridos-horarios-20241105111209-nt.html

Some 600 building inspectors are now in effected areas to check structures for safety.

The provincial government plans a to create a website to help local governments coordinate with volunteers . Interviews with volunteers suggests that more rather than fewer are needed for the countless smaller scale activities. The transportation department recommends avoiding the V-30. There are huge traffic jams on the AP-7. The beach areas in Pinedo, Arbre de Gos, El Saler, Garrofera, Devesa y Perellonet are closed for cleanup. They are using dogs to find cadavers in these areas.

People with missing relatives are asked to provide DNA samples to aid with identification. The central government intends to ask for aid from the European Solidarity Fund. Various EU countries have offered assistance, however none of the offers have yet to be accepted. The Spanish government is paying for all the costs the municipalities incur in dealing with the floods. A set of measures will be announced.

Donation fraud has raised its ugly head. Authorities advise checking the organization out before donating, For now I am recommending only World Central Kitchen. https://wck.org/

Source: primarily Las Provincias https://www.lasprovincias.es/