King Felipe of Spain's 'devastation and concern' over deadly flash flooding

King Felipe VI of Spain has spoken about the devastating flash flooding which has claimed the lives of more than 70 people in eastern Spain.

The king and his wife Queen Letizia first issued a message of condolences in a statement posted to social media overnight.

But as the situation escalated, His Majesty fronted a short news conference while on a pre-planned engagement on the nearby island of Gran Canaria, speaking of his "devastation and concern" at the situation unfolding.

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The monarch warned some of the impacted areas in the region of Andalusia risk being cut off after "enormous destruction" to infrastructure.

"Along with the queen, we would like to convey our condolences to all the families affected who have lost loved ones and who in some cases still do not know what has happened to some of their relatives," the king told Spanish media.

The areas around south-eastern Spain have been the worst affected, with Valencia reportedly getting a year's worth of rain in eight hours, as 491mm was reported in nearby Chiva.

By contrast, the average monthly rainfall for Valencia is 77mm in October and annual rainfall is 475mm, according to the Spanish State Meteorological Agency.

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The king was in the Canary Islands to participate in the Sirio 2024 military exercise, an annual training of Air and Space Army Units.

From there the 56-year-old dialled into a video conference with those co-ordinating rescue and recovery efforts in flood-affected areas.

The weather event, also known as a cold drop, is referred to as Depresion Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA) in Spain, and usually refers to high-impact Autumn rainfall events.

"Devastated by the latest news about the DANA," King Felipe said in an earlier statement posted on social media.

"Our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the more than 50 deceased. Strength, courage and all the necessary support for all those affected.

"Our warmest message and recognition to local and regional authorities and all emergency services, Armed Forces and State Security Forces and Corps for the titanic work they have been doing from the very beginning.

The Spanish royal family have also publicly thanked "emergency services, firefighters, local police, Armed Forces, National Police and Civil Guard for the commendable work they are doing in such difficult conditions" in a separate statement.

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