A year has passed since the powerful DANA struck Benetússer and its surroundings, leaving behind devastation and deep scars in the memories of local residents. The memories of that night still haunt many who found themselves at the heart of the disaster. Those who lived through the flood speak of fear, loss, and the struggle to rebuild their lives from scratch.
Eighty-five-year-old Carmen Perpinyá still cannot sleep peacefully when it starts raining outside. That night, water burst into their home, sweeping everything away in its path. Together with her 90-year-old husband, they clung to furniture and trees until the water began to recede. Rescuers and caring neighbors came to their aid, but Carmen suffered a severe leg injury and fought for her life for a long time. Now she dreams of returning to her home to spend the rest of her days there.
In neighboring Paiporta, Higinio Murcia, along with his wife and granddaughter, escaped the floodwaters on the roof of their own house. All their furniture was destroyed, and it took months for them to restore their home. They never received government support, but help came from ordinary people and some well-known figures, allowing the family to start repairs.
Losses that can’t be forgotten
In Sot de Chera, the tragedy took an even heavier toll. Ana María Coll lost both her husband and her young son that night when their house collapsed under the force of the water. She and her daughter miraculously survived, trapped among the debris. A year has passed, but the pain remains—she is still undergoing psychological rehabilitation and demands that authorities improve warning systems to prevent another disaster like this.
Many residents still have not been able to return to normal life. Water marks remain on the walls of homes, and the streets still bear reminders of the horror they endured. Every rainfall brings anxiety and fear that disaster could strike again.
Life After the Disaster: New Challenges
The psychological impact of the flood is felt throughout all affected areas. People worry about their future and are unsure if they will be able to rebuild their homes and regain their lost sense of security. Communities have come together to support one another, but many are still waiting for justice and help from the authorities.
A year later, residents of Benetússer, Paiporta, and Sot de Chera are still fighting for their homes and their dignity. Their stories are a stark reminder of how fragile human life can be, and of the importance of remembering those pushed to the brink by natural disasters.
