The Spanish government has approved financial aid worth around 7 billion euros ($8 billion) for people affected by the storms that battered the Extremadura and Andalusia regions in the past weeks.
Spain and Portugal have been hit by several storms since the start of the year that have caused widespread damage to infrastructure and crops, while forcing authorities to evacuate thousands of people.
“The help will compensate more than 12,400 people evacuated because of these events and mitigate the impact of heavy rains and flooding on houses, businesses and the agricultural and fishing sectors,” Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero told reporters. Montero did not rule out additional aid if further damage emerges from expert reports.
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At least 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres) of crops, including berries, citrus fruits and olives, were damaged by the storms, Agriculture Minister Luis Planas revealed to newsmen.
Spain has recorded 38% more rainfall than average since October, according to state weather agency AEMET.
In Portugal, the government initially estimated more than 4 billion euros in direct reconstruction costs and rolled out 2.5 billion euros in loans and incentives to help rebuild after Storm Kristin wreaked havoc three weeks ago.
Spain is a country in southwestern Europe, located on the Iberian Peninsula. It shares borders with Portugal, France, and Andorra, and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The capital city is Madrid, and the country has a population of about 47 million people.
Today, Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world, known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, warm climate, and vibrant nightlife. Cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia attract millions of tourists every year.
Reuters