Upon returning from India, King Charles issued a heartfelt message to King Felipe VI following the tragic floods in Valencia.
So far, 207 people have lost their lives in what has been described as Europe’s deadliest flood disaster since the 1970s, and “the worst flood-related disaster in modern history,” according to The Independent.
Using his official social media on Saturday, the King expressed his sorrow: “Your Majesty, my wife and I were utterly heartbroken to learn of the destruction and devastation following the catastrophic flooding in southern and eastern Spain. So many in the United Kingdom have strong, personal ties to Spain, and our nations are bound by so much that we have in common.
“We extend our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and to the people of Spain for the tragic loss of so many lives. Our special thoughts, prayers, and deepest possible sympathy are with all those who have lost loved ones and livelihoods during this terrible week. Charles R.”
Heavy rains began in southern Spain on Monday, reaching Valencia—the hardest-hit region—by Tuesday evening. Residents received smartphone alerts around 8 pm advising them to stay indoors, though many were already caught in hazardous conditions.
Climate experts, including Clare Nullis from the World Meteorological Organization, have pointed to climate change as an aggravating factor in Spain’s extreme weather.
Nullis commented, “The flooding we are seeing in Spain is just one of many extreme weather and water-related disasters worldwide this year… climate change is turbocharging extreme weather, and we can expect to see more of the devastation and despair witnessed this week.”
