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Emergency Spain flood appeal organised by Intrepid as death toll rises

An emergency appeal has been instigated by Intrepid Travel following devastating flash floods which have killed almost 160 people in Spain. 

The not-for-profit Intrepid Foundation arm pledged to match all funds raised.

Donations will support communities impacted following extreme rain and severe flooding in areas across eastern and southern Spain. 

Funding will go to Intrepid NGO partner and grassroots organisation Casa Caridad to provide immediate relief such as food and clothing to those impacted.

Besides the rising death toll, the severe weather caused extensive flooding in parts of the region, leading to power outages, road closures and damage to properties. 

The regions most affected include the Valencia area and La Mancha, though other parts of southern and eastern Spain have also experienced disruptions. 

All Intrepid tours are continuing to operate as scheduled and the operator said its was “closely monitoring” updates and guidance from local authorities to ensure traveller safety. 

“At present, there are no travel restrictions locally or internationally related to this event, and the risk to travellers remains low,” a company statement said.

As well as providing immediate relief, Casa Caridad is working with the Valencian government and will direct funds to the areas that need it most as the situation evolves.

Intrepid Foundation general manager Biheng Zhang said: “When a disaster affects one of our local communities, it impacts all of us.

“Through The Intrepid Foundation, the entire Intrepid ecosystem of travellers and industry can lend support to those who need it the most.”

Florencia Allo Moreno, general manager of Intrepid in western Europe, is based in Valencia and has been personally affected by the flooding. 

She said: “The current situation in Spain is devastating and communities are suffering deeply, with many people losing their homes and searching for their loved ones.

“Spain is a beloved destination for many Intrepid travellers and we want to do everything we can to support the relief efforts.”

Meanwhile, Irish Travel Agents Association chief executive Clare Dunne said: “I am in close contact with the regional Spanish tourism boards. The areas affected are not those currently frequented by Irish travellers. 

“Whilst Spain is the most popular holiday destination for Irish holiday makers, November is off peak with a significant lower number of Irish travellers than at high peak time.  

“All airports remain open. Travel warnings issued by Spanish authorities are directed at domestic travel arrangements.”

“If you are in an affected area, we advise you to monitor local news reports and follow any advice or instructions issued by the local authorities, your accommodation provider or local tour operator staff on the ground.

“You can also monitor information and alerts, including severe weather warnings, on the website of the Spanish Meteorological Agency, www.aemet.es.  Keep your mobile phone charged and turn it onto roaming to receive alerts from local authorities.”

To donate to recovery efforts, visit The Intrepid Foundation’s Spain Flood Appeal.

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