Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-27-2025

Comments

This article is the author’s final published version in Public Health Reviews, Volume 46, 2025, Article number 1608297.

The published version is available at https://doi.org/10.3389/phrs.2025.1608297. Copyright © 2025 Martin-Moreno, Garcia-Lopez, Guerrero-Fernandez, Alfonso- Sanchez and Barach.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The unprecedented DANA floods that struck Valencia, Spain on October 29, 2024, caused catastrophic human, economic, and ecological damages, resulting in 223 fatalities, the displacement of 15,000 residents, and long-term health and environmental consequences and incurred financial losses estimated over 50 billion euros. Vulnerabilities in urban planning, ambiguous command and control oversight, delayed warnings, and insufficient preparedness underscored systemic gaps in the flood preparedness and management.

ANALYSIS AND POLICY OPTIONS:

Urgent actions, including stricter urban zoning laws, implementing comprehensive early warning systems, and fostering community-based disaster preparedness are needed to mitigate future risks. A One Health approach that addresses the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health is critical. Investments in resilient infrastructure and communication strategies, including mobile alerts and public education campaigns, can significantly mitigate overall impacts. Moreover, prioritizing mental health interventions and long-term recovery plans are essential for fostering community resilience.

CONCLUSION:

The Valencia floods catastrophe is a painful reminder of the devastating potential of extreme weather and the critical importance of preparedness and clear governance underscore the pressing needs for integrated disaster management frameworks. An effective system of cooperation between local and national governments is essential to avoid the confusion and delays seen during this disaster. Strengthening prevention, preparedness, and response measures, and fostering political and community cohesion, can enable societies to build adaptive capacity to effectively tackle the increasing challenges of climate-driven extreme weather disasters. Future leaders must act with urgency and transparency to build trust and put citizens' safety above all else.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Language

English

Download

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.