In Spain, the town of Paiporta in the eastern region of Valencia erupted in anger and cries of murderer as King Felipe, Queen Letizia and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez toured the town, among the worst hit by last week’s floods that have killed more than 200 people.
The murderer cry appeared directed at Sanchez and the man accompanying him, Valencia regional head Mazon were whisked away by security while the royals tried to pacify the crowds, leaving an hour later.
Sanchez later told journalists “I am aware the response is not enough, there are problems and severe shortages … towns buried by mud .. desperate people searching for their relatives, we have to improve.”
It was later announced on public television that the royals had suspended their visit to Paiporta and were returning to Madrid.
The anger in the streets reflected the worst devastation Spain has seen in decades with relief operations off to a slow start and hopes of finding survivors ebbing away.
The authorities have deployed over 10,000 troops, civil guard and police, perhaps the largest ever deployment of such personnel in peacetime. But it underscored the depth of the tragedy which the region has undergone.
Transport remains affected, also telephone lines and the authorities have acknowledged it will be some days before areas become accessible.
The disaster has seen people lining up to help, many offering food and water to those rendered homeless by the tragedy. Others have stepped in cleaning equipment in hand to help clear the roads and neighbourhoods of debris.
The storm that triggered the floods formed as cold air moved over the warm waters of the Mediterranean, a common occurrence at this time of the year. But scientists say climate change influenced by human activity is exacerbating matters, leading to extreme weather events.
In the Vatican, Pope Francis offered prayers to the shattered people of Valencia.
With Reuters inputs
