Madrid [Spain], November 1 (HBTV): A devastating storm that struck Spain on Tuesday has led to a rising death toll of more than 150, according to a report by CNN.

The storm has claimed 155 lives, with Valencia experiencing its heaviest rainfall in 28 years. Many residents were trapped in basements and lower floors. While Spain's eastern and southern regions typically experience autumn rains, this year's downpour was unprecedented. Most of the fatalities occurred in Valencia, located along the Mediterranean coast and home to over five million people, CNN reported.

Train services between Madrid and Valencia have been suspended, along with other public services in the affected regions. Schools, museums, and public libraries in Valencia were closed on Thursday.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez pledged that his government would do everything possible to assist flood victims and urged citizens to remain vigilant. In a post on X, he stated, “The DANA continues. Please heed the recommendations of the emergency services. Right now, the most important thing is to safeguard everyone’s lives."

He added, “The Government of Spain is with the victims and their families. This will be the case for as long as necessary, with all possible resources and means for reconstruction and a return to normality, the sooner, the better."

The Spanish government has declared three days of official mourning for the victims, beginning Thursday.

The torrential rainfall was likely triggered by a weather phenomenon known as a "gota fría," or cold drop, or DANA. This occurs when a pool of cooler air becomes isolated from the jet stream and moves slowly, often causing intense rainfall. This phenomenon is most common in autumn, according to Spanish meteorologists and CNN.   

(ANI)