One year after the catastrophic floods that killed 229 people in Valencia, the thick mud that once coated the streets is gone, but fury lingers. Survivors and residents are still demanding accountability, particularly from regional president Carlos Mazón, who faced criticism for his delayed response during the 29 October 2024 disaster.
Mazón, of the conservative People’s party (PP), was having a four-hour lunch with a journalist while torrential rains brought a year’s worth of rainfall in eight hours, causing widespread flooding. His administration did not send an emergency mobile alert until 8.11pm, by which time most victims had already drowned. In total, 229 people died in Valencia, with additional fatalities in Castilla-La Mancha and Andalucía.
The anger is visible in stickers displayed on buildings, depicting Mazón with bloodstained hands and the slogan 'Mud on our hands; blood on his.' Below, the words 'Mazón criminal' underscore the public sentiment. On 25 October 2025, more than 50,000 people marched through Valencia demanding his resignation. Recent surveys show 75% of Valencians believe he should step down.
The disaster has also exposed political divisions over the climate emergency. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a socialist, announced a 10-point climate preparation plan, but the PP accused him of using it to distract from corruption allegations. The far-right Vox party blamed Sánchez and 'leftwing, environmentalist' policies for the deaths. Critics argue such political squabbling hinders effective disaster response.
The human toll continues. Fernando Sánchez, a survivor who helped neighbours after the flood, saw his elderly father Francisco, a wheelchair user, trapped in their first-floor flat when the lift broke. Francisco was only able to leave the building after his death on 17 October 2025. His story reflects the ongoing suffering of many who lost homes, loved ones, or mobility in the floods.
