FLASH
Shkruar nga PamfletiAn additional 500 military forces are being deployed in Valencia amid criticism of local authorities over their response to the catastrophic floods that have hit Spain in recent days.
More than 200 people have been confirmed dead, most in and around Valencia, but the death toll is expected to rise.
Heavy rains that began on Monday caused floods that have destroyed bridges and covered cities in mud, disrupting communities and leaving them without water, food or electricity.
Thousands of people have traveled from the city of Valencia to nearby rural areas to bring supplies and help with clean-up efforts, but on Friday authorities announced that traffic in the region would be restricted over the weekend to ensure access for emergency workers.
Weather warnings that remain in place in north-east and southern Spain will last until Sunday, while another has been issued in the Balearic Islands for Saturday.
About 1,700 soldiers are already working on search and rescue operations in the Valencia region, although hope of finding more survivors is fading.
Part of the focus is on pumping water out of underground tunnels and car parks, where people are suspected to be trapped after water seeps in.
Local authorities are facing criticism for the speed of the response and the lack of warnings before the floods.
Amparo Andres, who has owned her store in Valencia for 40 years, told the BBC that at one point the water in the building was up to her neck and she believed she was going to die.
"At least I'm alive, but I've lost everything. My business, my home. And the government is doing nothing. Only the young people around are helping us," she said.
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