Valencia’s resilience

Our hearts are broken after Valencia suffered its worst natural disaster in history last week. Catastrophic flooding killed more than 200 people due to relentless rainfall that dumped 19.5 inches in 8 hours (more than a year’s worth of rain). Seeing images of the devastation online and on social media is truly shocking, and the community is reeling from the loss. The mood throughout the city feels somber and people are angry at the government’s response/inaction.

There’s also a sense of resilience and strength as the community has come together to support those affected. Thousands of volunteers, including 10,000 on Saturday, have shown up daily, armed with brooms, buckets, and bottled water to assist with the clean-up efforts, some walking several miles.