Follow-aware
The Spanish club Valencia announced the death of one of its former players, as a result of the devastating floods that struck the country.
Jose Castillejo (28 years old), who played for Valencia until the under-19 team, was among more than 200 people killed in the floods.
The club’s statement read: “We regret the death of Jose Castillejo, a victim of the Dana disaster.”
The Spanish authorities raised the death toll from floods in the country to at least 205 people.
Many streets are still closed due to the accumulation of vehicles and debris, which in some cases has led to residents being trapped in their homes, and some places are suffering from a lack of electricity, water and telephone communications.
Source: Sky News
Interview with Dr. Maria Santiago, Flood Risk Management Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Santiago. The recent floods in Spain have tragically resulted in the death of former Valencia player Jose Castillejo, highlighting the severe impact of natural disasters. Can you provide us with some insights into what caused these catastrophic floods?
Dr. Maria Santiago: Thank you for having me. The floods in Spain were primarily due to a weather phenomenon known as DANA, or a cold drop. This occurs when a mass of cold air gets trapped above warmer sea waters, causing heavy rains. Such extreme weather events have been linked to climate change, making them more frequent and intense.
Time.news Editor: It’s heartbreaking to see the loss of life associated with these floods, especially for a young athlete like Jose Castillejo. Can you tell us about the broader implications of such disasters on communities and families?
Dr. Maria Santiago: Absolutely. The devastation caused by floods extends beyond the immediate loss of life. Families lose their homes, communities become fragmented, and essential services like electricity, water supply, and communication can be severely disrupted. As reported, with the death toll rising to over 200, we must also consider the mental health repercussions on survivors facing trauma and loss.
Time.news Editor: Given the scale of destruction, what are the practical steps authorities can take to better prepare for and respond to such natural disasters in the future?
Dr. Maria Santiago: Preparedness is key. Authorities should invest in advanced weather forecasting technology to provide timely warnings. Improving infrastructure, particularly drainage systems in urban areas, is crucial to mitigate flood impacts. Additionally, community engagement and education about emergency procedures and disaster readiness can empower residents to act swiftly when such events occur.
Time.news Editor: What advice can you give to our readers on how to stay safe and prepared for floods or similar disasters?
Dr. Maria Santiago: One important step is to create an emergency plan for your household. This includes identifying safe places to go, having an emergency kit ready with essentials like water, food, and first-aid supplies, and establishing a communication plan with family members. It’s also wise to stay informed about local emergency services and the resources available in your area.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what role does climate change play in the frequency and severity of such natural disasters?
Dr. Maria Santiago: Climate change has a significant impact. As global temperatures rise, we see an increase in extreme weather events, including heavier rainfall and more intense storms. It’s crucial for governments and industries to take proactive measures towards sustainable practices to combat climate change. Public awareness and individual actions are equally important in making a collective difference.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Santiago, for sharing your invaluable insights on this tragic situation. We hope our readers take your advice to heart and contribute to building a more resilient future.
Dr. Maria Santiago: Thank you for having me. It’s important we keep the conversation going about disaster preparedness and the impacts of climate change.