In the wake of devastating floods in Spain, over 160 lives have been lost, prompting immediate action from the Intrepid Foundation.
- The Intrepid Foundation has launched an emergency appeal, pledging to match funds to aid affected Spanish communities.
- Significant flooding in Valencia and La Mancha has disrupted life, causing power outages and widespread property damage.
- Casa Caridad, with support from Intrepid, is delivering essential relief by providing food and clothing to those in dire need.
- Despite the chaos, travel operations remain stable, and the risk to tourists is currently considered low.
Spain is grappling with the aftermath of severe flash floods that have resulted in the tragic loss of over 160 lives. In light of this catastrophe, the Intrepid Foundation has quickly mobilised an emergency appeal to provide much-needed support to the affected regions. The foundation has committed to matching the funds raised, ensuring maximum impact for the relief efforts.
The flooding, which has predominantly affected eastern and southern regions like Valencia and La Mancha, has caused immense disruptions. Power outages and damage to infrastructure have compounded the difficulties faced by residents. The Valencia area, in particular, has seen significant hardship, but other parts of southern and eastern Spain are also experiencing severe disruptions.
Amid the turmoil, local communities are receiving immediate assistance from Casa Caridad, an organisation partnered with the Intrepid Foundation. Their efforts are focused on delivering essentials such as food and clothing. Additionally, Casa Caridad is collaborating with the Valencian government to channel aid effectively to the hardest-hit areas.
Despite the ongoing crisis, travel operations through Intrepid are continuing without interruption. The company is maintaining close communication with local authorities to monitor the situation and ensure traveller safety. Current assessments indicate no immediate travel restrictions either locally or internationally, and the risk level to tourists remains low.
Commenting on the solidarity within the travel community, Biheng Zhang, general manager of the Intrepid Foundation, emphasised the collective impact disasters have and the significance of supporting local communities in distress.
Adding a personal perspective, Florencia Allo Moreno, Intrepid’s general manager in western Europe who resides in Valencia, highlighted the profound hardships faced by locals as they cope with the flood’s devastation. Her remarks underline the urgency of the relief efforts and the heartfelt connections Intrepid travellers have with Spain.
Furthermore, Clare Dunne, chief executive of the Irish Travel Agents Association, reassured that while Spain is a popular destination for Irish holidaymakers, the regions frequented by them have not been affected. Currently, all Spanish airports remain operational. Her advice for those in affected zones is to heed local advisories and remain informed through reliable sources such as the Spanish Meteorological Agency.
The dedication and rapid response from organisations like the Intrepid Foundation highlight the power of collective action in times of crisis.
