Storm Laurence Claims Two Lives in Constantina: Search Efforts Continue
The search efforts in the town of Constantina, located in the province of Seville, intensified on Wednesday as the body of a second missing individual was recovered following the devastating effects of Storm Laurence. The man was found in a vehicle that had been swept away and overturned by the swift currents caused by heavy rainfall.
This tragic incident started when he and his wife were caught off guard by the sudden rise of a nearby stream, leading to their vehicle being dragged into the water. While the search teams initially responded to the scene after the alarming reports, the body of the man's wife was discovered the previous afternoon, tragically found 400 meters downstream from their vehicle.
Rescue operations resumed early Wednesday morning around 8:00 AM, with multiple units from the Seville firefighters joining forces with the Civil Guard and local volunteers to conduct thorough searches of the area. The presence of the underwater activities group of the Civil Guard, known as GEAS, was crucial, although they faced significant challenges. The strong currents, dense vegetation, and the murky waters hindered their efforts.
Following the unexpected flooding triggered by Storm Laurence, officials reported that more than 40 roads have been affected, leading to various closures due to rain and snow. While some traffic routes have reopened, including the AP4 Sevilla-Cádiz, train services have been disrupted, causing further logistical challenges.
The town of Constantina is now grappling with the aftermath of this devastating storm, as the loss of life has sparked concerns regarding safety and preparedness for future severe weather events. Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as search operations continue, and the impact of Storm Laurence unfolds across the region.
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