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The Valencia DANA

T eventThursday, 12 December 2024

The recent DANA in Valencia stands as one of the most severe natural disasters Spain has faced in decades. An estimated 325,000 people have been directly affected in the "ground zero" of the DANA, covering several municipalities in the primary metropolitan ring around Valencia. This area experienced extensive flooding in homes and industrial zones, resulting in emergency displacements and severe material damage. Water flow exceeded 2,200 cubic meters per second, equivalent to the average flow of the Rhine, Europe's most voluminous river. In a region usually characterized by dry riverbeds, the relative scale of this event proved devastating, creating critical floods due to the unpreparedness of urban soils and channels.

This event has stirred both hearts and minds. Since the beginning of cleanup and relief efforts, thousands of volunteers have participated daily in recovery operations in affected areas. The first weekend (November 2 and 3) saw massive mobilization, with over 10,000 volunteers recorded.

I am Almudena. I live in Valencia. I’ve been there, seen it all, and now I want to share my experience.

What I have seen in recent days is that race, religion, or political views don’t matter here. What we are showing is a unity of spirit. When someone suffers, we all pull together to bring relief.

Among the stench of decay, I see solidarity, respect, and understanding. I’m witnessing more civility than I’ve ever seen before: every action is met with a “please” or a “thank you,” words of encouragement, hugs for strangers, pats on the back. I haven’t heard a single harsh word. Not one.

I am learning how important it is to offer your own grain of sand. When many people come together, these grains of sand become a desert. In these photos, you see a tiny piece of that desert.

In the era of individualism and social media, we’re showing that we can use these tools to rise above ourselves and, literally, walk miles to connect with others. Thus, individualism becomes collectivism. Boundaries become meeting points. Differences become unity. And life... becomes a gift to share with one another.