Eight helicopters belonging to several entities rescued over 150 people, including a baby and several minors from rooftops and terraces, over a 6-hour period in Oliva, Pego, and surrounding areas.

A total of 15 rescue operations were coordinated by the Valencian Servicio Marítimo, in deployments involving helicopters, fire personnel, UME (military emergency unit), the Guardia Civil and the private contractor, Avincis, which is the largest, global operator of emergency, aerial services in Europe.

The severe flooding was caused by torrential rainfall during Sunday night/Monday early morning, exceeding 400 litres per square metre in a matter of hours, which caused the Río Girona to burst its banks.

Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for Oliva; instructing residents to stay in high areas. Over 40 police patrols were deployed to assist.

The local government opened a multipurpose centre to house the evacuees, including 30 highly distressed individuals rescued from Eurocamping Oliva.

(News: Oliva/Pego, Valencia)

Keywords: Torrential Downpour, River Overflows, Servicio Maritimo, helicopter, Military Emergency Unit, Rio Girona

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