MADRID (AP) — Carlos Mazón, the leader of Spain’s Valencia region, announced his resignation on Monday following intense scrutiny over his administration’s handling of the catastrophic flash floods that claimed 229 lives last year. The decision comes after months of mounting pressure from both the public and political opponents, who have accused him of mismanaging the crisis. The devastating floods, which occurred on October 29, 2024, overwhelmed the region, sweeping away vehicles and destroying homes. Mazón faced widespread criticism for the delayed issuance of flood alerts to residents’ mobile phones, which came after the waters had already breached their banks. Additionally, his decision to attend a lengthy lunch on the day of the disaster, while emergency officials were coordinating relief efforts, further fueled public outrage. The backlash reached a peak during a state memorial ceremony held on the first anniversary of the tragedy, where family members of the victims openly jeered and insulted him. Mazón’s resignation marks a significant moment in Valencia’s political landscape, as the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of the disaster and the need for improved emergency response systems.
Spainish regional leader steps down over his handling of last year’s Valencia flash floods
