Spain’s deadliest floods kill 64, roads closed, rail services halted

At least 63 people have lost their lives in southern and eastern Spain after flash floods tore through villages, sweeping away vehicles and transforming streets, in what is being called one of the worst natural disasters the nation has seen in recent years. (Reuters)

These storms also brought unusual weather, including a hailstorm that smashed car windows and greenhouses, as well as a rare tornado. (Reuters)

At least 62 people died in Valencia while authorities in the central inland region of Castilla La Mancha said the storm, which has swept through much of Spain's Mediterranean coast, had left two people dead and several missing. (AP)

Heavy rain on Tuesday triggered severe flooding from Malaga to Valencia, sending muddy waters crashing through streets, sweeping cars and debris along with them. (Reuters)

Firefighters work to clear debris after heavy rains caused flooding, in Letur. Police and rescue services used helicopters to lift people from their homes and rubber boats to reach drivers trapped on the roofs of cars. (Reuters)

Over 1,000 soldiers from Spain’s emergency response units were deployed to the devastated areas. Members of emergency services and Guardia Civil rescue people trapped in their homes after floods in Letur. (AP)

Spain, which has experienced severe droughts and record-high temperatures, is seeing a rise in extreme weather events, which scientists link to climate change. (Reuters)

Trains to the cities of Madrid and Barcelona were cancelled due to the flooding, and schools and other essential services were suspended in the worst-hit areas, officials said. (Reuters)

People walk through flooded streets in Valencia, Spain. The death toll is expected to rise as search efforts continue, particularly in inaccessible areas. (AP)