An urgent travel warning for Spain has been issued by the Foreign Office following severe flooding that is thought to have killed at least 52 people. Emergency services in the country said at least 51 people, including children, have died in the floods affecting eastern and southern Spain.

And a local media outlet reported an 88-year-old woman was found dead in the town of Mira further inland. The deaths occurred after torrential rains flooded roads and towns in parts of the country.

As a result of the downpours cars have been swept through streets, houses and buildings have been damaged and a train was derailed. Following the extreme weather event, the Foreign Office urged travellers to take caution.

Officials conduct search and rescue operations after a deluge brought up to 200 liters of rain per square meter (50 gallons per square yard) in hours in towns across the region of Valencia, Spain on October 30, 2024
Floods triggered by torrential rains in Spain’s eastern Valencia region has left at least 51 people dead, rescue services said on October 30. (Image: Getty)

In an update it said: “Severe weather and flooding is affecting many areas of southern and eastern Spain, particularly the Valencia region and Castilla La Mancha. Journeys may be affected. Check the latest weather warnings from Spain’s meteorological office before you travel and follow instructions from local authorities.”

Spanish authorities in the areas that have been worst hit by the devastation have advised people to stay at home and avoid all non-essential travel. Speaking after the crisis, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said “we are united and we will rebuild your streets and your squares and bridges,” telling those affected: “Spain will be with you.”

But he then warned that the “devastating event” may not be over yet, as weather forecasters predict further storms into Thursday this week. To find out more about the travel warnings visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/safety-and-security.