On 29 October 2024, the Valencian Community experienced one of the rainiest days recorded for that time of year, according to data from the Spanish Meteorological Agency. The torrential rains caused by an isolated high-altitude depression (a meteorological phenomenon known as DANA, the spanish initials of Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) mainly affected the towns in the south of the Valencian capital, an area known as the region of L'Horta Sud and nearby municipalities, causing concern at local, national and international levels.
However, it is essential to highlight that the city of Valencia, the tourist and cultural heart of the region, did not suffer any material damage. Thanks to the fact that they diverted the old channel of the Turia River, after the Great Flood of 1957, and the city's drainage system, the rains didn’t cause flooding in the urban center. Although we share the pain of our affected neighbors, the capital continues to function normally and is prepared, now more than ever, to receive tourists and visitors.
From HQ Rooms we want to reassure all our guests that Valencia is back on its feet and moving towards recovery, actively supporting the affected areas. An example of this resilient spirit is the recent campaign launched by the Valencia City Council, entitled "Seeing you in Valencia makes our hearts happy", an initiative aimed at promoting tourism as an essential pillar of the local economy, which is particularly necessary at this time.
Although the city of Valencia has not suffered any flooding, DANA has severely affected some towns in the southern region, such as Massanassa, Albal, Alfafar, Benetússer, Catarroja, Paiporta or Sedaví, among many others. The list published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE; "The Official State Gazette, shows which of the more than 70 municipalities are affected by DANA. The joint efforts of the authorities, volunteers and companies are still needed to take care of the affected families and try to restore normality as soon as possible.
For all those people who want to come visit Valencia, it is important to know that the areas affected by this catastrophe are outside the urban center and don’t affect the experience of enjoying the city. Come stroll through our streets and see the old town, the Town Hall Square, the Central Market and the City of Arts and Sciences, among other attractions. They will be open and welcoming visitors as usual.
Are you planning a trip to Valencia this Christmas or in 2025? Infrastructure and transportation have returned to normal operation. Manises Airport, Joaquín Sorolla and Estación del Nord stations, as well as the public bus and metro services, will operate without interruption.
The city of Valencia remains a destination full of life, culture and hospitality. DANA has left its mark, but it has also inspired a wave of solidarity and resilience. At HQ Rooms we are proud to have hosted in our apartments in the centre of Valencia to teams of volunteers and business representatives who have played a key role in responding to this emergency. Our guests found our apartments not only a comfortable place to rest after a whole day of clearing mud and debris, but also a meeting point to organise their solidarity work.
At HQ Rooms we encourage you to enjoy Valencia, to support its recovery and be part of the engine that will make this city and its surroundings shine again brighter than ever. Walking through its streets, enjoying its gastronomy, its charming towns, exploring its green spaces and its vibrant leisure and cultural offer is a unique experience. With its privileged climate, its rich history and its hospitality, Valencia has everything to offer you an unforgettable stay. Valencia needs you now more than ever. We await you with open arms!
HQ Rooms