Webinar Introduction

We are excited to invite you to a compelling webinar addressing the 2024 Spanish Floods, a catastrophic natural disaster that has left an indelible mark on Spain and its neighboring regions. This virtual event aims to explore the far-reaching impacts of the floods, the lessons learned, and the steps needed to build resilience against future climate-related disasters.

The 2024 Spanish Floods were among the most devastating in the nation's history, impacting several regions, from Andalusia to Catalonia. Torrential rains triggered widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure collapses. Thousands of people were displaced, and many faced significant loss of property, livelihoods, and essential services. Rural and urban areas alike were affected, underscoring the wide-reaching nature of such disasters.

The economic repercussions of the floods have been profound, with extensive damage to agriculture, transportation networks, and critical infrastructure. Recovery has been an arduous process, revealing vulnerabilities in existing disaster management frameworks and highlighting the urgent need for robust, localized strategies. Tragically, the floods claimed the lives of at least 230 people, including 221 in Valencia, seven in Castile–La Mancha, and one in Andalusia, half of whom were over 60 and nine of whom were children.

The floods have also sparked critical conversations about the link between extreme weather events and climate change. With rising global temperatures, the intensity and frequency of such disasters are expected to grow, underscoring the necessity of climate adaptation, mitigation, and forward-thinking urban planning. Amid the devastation, inspiring stories of community resilience and solidarity have emerged. Local initiatives, combined with national and international support, have been instrumental in rescue, relief, and rebuilding efforts. These efforts underline the importance of collective action and preparedness in the face of escalating climate risks.

Why Attend?

• Gain insights into the causes and dynamics of the 2024 Spanish Floods.
• Explore innovative strategies for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
• Learn about the role of policy and planning in enhancing climate resilience.
• Engage with leading experts in discussions on building a sustainable and disaster-resilient future.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of one of Spain's most pressing challenges in recent history. Together, let’s work towards creating resilient communities and sustainable systems to face an uncertain climate future.

Presentations can be accessed here:

• Slobodan P. Simonovic
• Félix Francés

 

Host
International Conferences on Flood Management (ICFM)
China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research (IWHR)

Organizer
Permanent Secretariat of ICFM

Technical support
Medcon Conference Service Platform (MEDCON)