In the wake of Valencia's flooding, divinity seemed tangible through numerous individuals' actions
Floods in Picanya, Valencia: A Testament of Community and Divine Love
On a fateful night, October 29, 2024, the quiet town of Picanya, located in the region of L’Horta Sud, south of Valencia, was hit by a devastating flood. The cause was a severe weather system, a High-Level Atmospheric Depression, which brought torrential rains that led to flash flooding in the area.
For Susana Perez, a resident of Picanya, the flood was a testament to the power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. Her home, a detached house, was flooded, with the garage submerged up to the ceiling and the first floor approximately 70 cm deep in water. Despite the overwhelming situation, Susana saw a silver lining in the community's response.
"The flood was a time when the community came together to support each other," Susana shared. "Many brothers and sisters in faith, friends, and strangers showed their love through acts of kindness."
These acts ranged from bringing coffee, food, tools, messages of encouragement, prayers, to removing mud from their home. Some even stayed with Susana and her family for several nights.
Susana's daughter suggested reading a Psalm from the Bible and praying for their neighbors who were in danger. This act of faith, Susana believes, was a reflection of God's love.
"God is seen as love, and as His creatures, we can reflect this love to others," Susana said. "The love that was shown during the floods was a love that gives without expecting anything in return."
The emergency services were overloaded, and the telephone network was almost not working during the event. Yet, the community managed to rally together, providing the support that the local authorities could not.
The flooding was part of a wider emergency affecting surrounding Valencian municipalities, sparking protests about the handling of the disaster. However, for Susana, the memory of the community's love and support during the floods remains a beacon of hope.
"I saw God's love being reflected in many people during the floods," Susana said. "Despite the chaos and destruction, there was a sense of unity and compassion that was truly inspiring."
Despite the loss of some cars, Susana and her family were able to weather the storm, thanks in part to the love and support of their community. The flood in Picanya, Valencia, on October 29, 2024, serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the power of community.
In the aftermath of the devastating flood in Picanya, Susana Perez's home-and-garden were significantly affected, yet her lifestyle was enriched by the outpouring of community support. The love and kindness shown by neighbors, friends, and strangers during the crisis reflected a divine love that gave without expecting anything in return.
