In October 2024, Valencia was hit by one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent decades. The catastrophe, triggered by a powerful DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos), claimed the lives of 229 people. Particular attention was drawn to the tragic circumstances of elderly residents connected to the teleassistance system, who were left completely isolated in their homes as the water levels suddenly began to rise.
In the small town of Picanya, located just a few kilometers from Valencia, an 80-year-old woman living on the ground floor near a raging stream became trapped. A teleassistance operator tried to keep in touch with her, offering advice on how to stay safe, but the situation grew worse by the minute. The woman attempted to move to higher ground, but the water kept rising, and efforts to contact emergency services failed because the phone lines were overwhelmed.
A similar tragedy unfolded in Utiel, where a 90-year-old woman, left alone with her dog, was cut off from the outside world. Her daughter desperately tried to get information about her mother by reaching out to police and emergency services, but due to the scale of the disaster and overloaded communication systems, help did not arrive in time. Teleassistance staff kept the family updated about rescue attempts, but the real situation on the ground remained critical.
Investigation and public outcry
The court proceedings initiated in Catarroja are focused on uncovering the causes behind the deaths of 37 teleassistance users. These individuals made up a significant portion of the victims among the most vulnerable segments of the population. The work of emergency services as well as the actions of the regional authorities have come under scrutiny. The Vice President of the Generalitat Valenciana found herself at the center of public attention after it emerged she was absent from the emergency command post at the height of the disaster.
During the investigation, transcripts of phone conversations between operators and victims were released. These recordings vividly illustrate just how helpless many elderly people were during the natural disaster. Operators tried to maintain contact and give instructions, but often couldn’t provide real help due to unavoidable limitations.
Systemic problems and conclusions
The tragedy exposed vulnerabilities in the support system for elderly and dependent citizens during emergencies. Despite the availability of modern technology, overloaded lines and a shortage of resources prevented a timely response to all calls. Civic organizations are calling for a review of response protocols and better coordination between services.
The stories of the victims have become a symbol of helplessness in the face of natural disasters and a reminder of the urgent need for reform in the social welfare system. The trial is ongoing, and the public is waiting for answers to whether so many lives among the most vulnerable could have been saved.
