The morning of October 29, 2024, in Valencia began with alarming news: a powerful DANA (high-level depression) hit the region, causing severe flooding. On that day, as the city and its surroundings found themselves at the center of the disaster, former Justice and Home Affairs Advisor of the Generalitat Valenciana, Salomé Pradas, maintained constant communication with the then regional head, Carlos Mazón. Their conversations on WhatsApp have now become the focus of intense investigation.
According to documents presented to the court in Catarroja, Pradas repeatedly updated Mazón on the situation in the most dangerous areas. Particular concern was raised over the Magro river (río Magro) and the Poyo ravine (barranco del Poyo), where water levels were rising rapidly. Despite these alarming updates, the regional leader made no changes to his schedule, as documented in the case files.
In one message, Pradas wrote: “I am in touch with Bernabé. Most worrying is the Poyo ravine and the Magro river.” Mazón’s reply was brief: “Perfect.” Investigators note that this short exchange says much about the leadership’s response to the events.
Investigation progress
The court proceedings on the Valencia tragedy are ongoing. Investigators are examining not only the actions of emergency services but also the communication between key officials during critical hours. The exchange of messages between Pradas and Mazón has become central evidence shedding light on how decisions were made in the midst of the disaster.
Case materials indicate that Pradas sent regular updates and was well-informed about the situation on the ground. However, despite this, no urgent measures were taken by the regional leadership to alter their plans. Investigators note that Mazón’s response to his subordinate’s messages was restrained and was not followed up with further orders.
Public Reaction
The release of the correspondence has sparked widespread public debate. Many residents of Valencia and other cities in the region are questioning whether the authorities acted appropriately during such a critical situation. Social media is abuzz with discussion about why the regional leader did not change his schedule despite receiving alarming reports.
Relatives of the victims and those affected are demanding transparency and an impartial investigation from the authorities. They believe that a timely response from the leadership could have saved lives. At the same time, some experts note that in the context of a natural disaster, even the fastest decisions do not always bring the desired outcome.
Next Steps
The court proceedings regarding the Valencia flood case are ongoing. Investigators plan to question everyone involved in the correspondence, as well as other officials who made decisions that day. Special attention is being paid to the analysis of emergency services’ actions and coordination between different agencies.
New details of the investigation are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Regional authorities have pledged to conduct an internal audit and review emergency response protocols. The public is awaiting answers to whether such a large-scale tragedy could have been prevented.
In case you weren’t aware, Carlos Mazón served as president of the Valencian Community from 2023 to 2024 and was a key figure in regional politics. Salomé Pradas previously headed the Department of Justice and the Interior, also overseeing civil protection issues. Both officials came under scrutiny following the tragedy, and their actions are being closely examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
