On 29 October 2024, eastern Spain was struck by catastrophic floods, known as the Dana, which claimed the lives of 237 people across the Valencia region and neighboring areas. The disaster, the worst of its kind in decades, left an indelible mark on communities such as Benetússer and Paiporta, where entire families were swept away by the torrential waters. Toñi García, a resident of Benetússer, tragically lost her husband, Miguel, and their 24-year-old daughter, Sara, when floodwaters engulfed their home’s basement. ‘They didn’t reach the garage door,’ she recalls, ‘because it was so much water, so many metres deep.’ A year later, the region continues to grieve, with a state memorial service attended by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The emotional scars remain, particularly among children, with nearly a third still experiencing fear of rain and loud noises, according to Save the Children. Despite significant progress in reconstruction, questions linger about the handling of the crisis. The regional government’s delayed emergency alarm, issued after 20:00 on the day of the floods, has drawn widespread criticism. Regional President Carlos Mazón’s actions during the disaster, including a lengthy lunch with a journalist, have fueled public outrage. Tens of thousands protested in Valencia, demanding his resignation. Mazón, supported by the far-right Vox party, has defied calls to step down, blaming the central government for insufficient support. A judicial inquiry into possible negligence is ongoing, with Mazón set to face a parliamentary commission later this month. As Valencia rebuilds, the threat of future weather events looms large, prompting calls for improved preparedness and resilience.