70 emergency responders leave for Valencia to help with the emergency

The Canary Islands Government has launched an extensive emergency response effort, sending critical resources to Valencia to support recovery operations following the severe impact of the DANA storm.

This deployment responds to a request from the Generalitat of Valencia and the National Centre for Emergency Monitoring and Coordination (CENEM) of the Ministry of the Interior.

The first team set out on a Fred Olsen ferry bound for Huelva yesterday morning (Sunday), which included a lightweight Advanced Command Post (PMA) from the Canary Islands Emergency and Rescue Group (GES), a rapid response vehicle from the Canary Emergency Medical Service (SUC), and four vehicles from the Gran Canaria Emergency Consortium, supported by six emergency service professionals.

Joining this group will be an additional 66 specialists, set to fly to the affected areas, trained in water removal, drainage, and cleaning of flooded zones. This expanded response team reflects the urgent need for skilled personnel capable of handling the aftermath of severe flooding.

Composition of the Team

The mission features an array of specialised personnel, including:

• Firefighters: 18 from Tenerife, 16 from Gran Canaria, and 3 from Lanzarote.
• Emergency and Rescue Group (GES): Two highly trained operatives.
• Forest Fire Intervention and Reinforcement Teams (EIRIF): 11 members.
• Tenerife’s BRIFOR: 10 operatives from the forest fire reinforcement brigades.

Néstor Padrón, the subdirector of Civil Protection and Emergencies for the Canary Islands Government, will oversee the technical coordination on the ground in the designated intervention area.

Resources and Equipment

The response team is well-equipped, carrying a variety of essential tools, including:

• Drones: For aerial reconnaissance and logistical support.
• Pumping Equipment: 24 motor pumps and 8 electric pumps of varying capacities, along with suction hoses, intended for draining water from garages, basements, and sewers.
• Medical Support: A medical team from SUC and the Canary Health Service (SCS) comprising a doctor and two nurses will be on hand to assist responders and address any emergency medical needs.

Objective and Mission Scope

The mission’s primary focus is on water extraction, drainage, and the cleaning of inundated areas to prevent further damage and support recovery efforts. The deployment of medical supplies and first aid kits ensures that any on-site health incidents are promptly managed, enhancing the safety of both emergency responders and the affected residents.

This substantial mobilisation reflects the Canary Islands’ commitment to national solidarity and assistance during times of crisis. As recovery efforts in Valencia continue, the deployment of these experienced teams and their resources is expected to play a crucial role in mitigating the severe impacts of the DANA storm, facilitating a faster return to normality in the affected areas.