In Oliva in the Valencian region Safor a helicopter from Salvamento Marítimo rescued ten people and a dog from buildings cut off by floodwater on Monday. According to the maritime rescue service, they were eight adults and two minors. The operations took place in the early afternoon, as heavy rainfall associated with DANA Adam flooded roads, tracks and numerous residential areas.
The operation was coordinated by the rescue coordination centre in Valencia, after the Generalitat Valenciana requested assistance. The Helimer 202was deployed, picking up those affected and returning to the area after refuelling to assess further situations. Images and official statements from the region show widespread flooding, with helicopters in some places the only safe means of evacuation.
DANA Adam hit parts of Valencia and Alicante provinces on Monday. Roads and ground floors were under water in several municipalities, and residents were told to avoid danger zones. Emergency crews reported numerous calls for help from people sheltering in their homes around Oliva. There were also reports of further evacuations by local fire services and the Guardia Civil are also available. The Unidad Militar de Emergencias was called in to provide technical assistance in some areas.
Authorities stress that the priority is rescuing people trapped and securing critical infrastructure. Information about injuries and damage is still provisional; a full assessment is pending. Meteorological services warned of further locally very intense showers that could cause water levels to rise briefly. Emergency coordinators urge people to avoid flooded areas and strictly observe closures.
The helicopter operation in Oliva highlights the importance of air support during sudden flooding on the Mediterranean coast. Salvamento Marítimo, which normally deals with emergencies at sea, is also called upon by regional authorities to assist inland when ground access is blocked. Initial assessments suggest that coordination between regional control centres, specialist helicopters such as the Helimer 202 and ground units is crucial to providing rapid assistance in hard-to-reach areas.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).