Paris Seeks to Learn from Valencia's Flood Management After DANA

The French capital aims to draw lessons from Valencia's experience in preventing and responding to hydrological emergencies.

Generic image of emergency lights reflecting on wet asphalt at night.
IA

Generic image of emergency lights reflecting on wet asphalt at night.

The city of Paris has initiated a collaboration with the Valencia City Council to study the measures adopted by the Valencian capital in flood management and prevention, following the DANA (depresión aislada en niveles altos) event on October 29, 2024.

This cooperation stems from the interest shown by the French capital in Valencia's response to the DANA, which caused significant damage. The initiative began with a solidarity contribution of 150,000 euros from the Paris City Council for the reconstruction of municipal sports facilities in the district of La Torre, where damages exceeded 2.4 million euros.
Parisian emergency services, including members of their Crisis Committee led by Bénédicte Cadalen, have shown great interest in the preventive planning, operational response, and inter-service coordination implemented in Valencia. A first technical meeting has already been held to exchange knowledge.
During the meeting, the Valencia Fire Department detailed its actions during the emergency night and the logistical, health, and security complexities faced in the subsequent months. Future plans were also presented, such as updating risk maps, strengthening public warning systems, citizen training, protocols for closing educational centers, and conducting drills.
The Valencia Local Police shared its experience, comparing the DANA with the 1957 flood and highlighting lessons learned in communications, energy supply, training, and psychological support. Furthermore, participation in the European project LEAD-PRO, focused on emergency management, was emphasized.
Both cities have agreed to continue cooperation with new meetings and the possibility of on-site exchanges. The Parisian delegation has been invited to participate in a pilot exercise of the LEAD-PRO project, scheduled for La Torre in June 2026.