Army takes part in rescue efforts in Asturias after torrential rain

Intense rain fall over the last few days in Asturias has led to landslides on the N-632 road at Soto del Barco. In addition yesterday the traffic police took the decision to block the N-634 road, the main road linking Asturias and Galicia, due to the high risk of further landslides. The river Barayo broke its banks a few days ago and even an older road which was being used as a diversion was affected by flood waters.

Due to the extent of the flooding and landslides the regional government of Asturias was forced asked the Home Office for help. Yesterday the Emergency Military unit (UME) was called on to collaborate in efforts to combat the effects of landslides and flooding.

As a result 49 members of UME have been helping police and fire fighters using 18 vehicles, 5 fire engines, 2 supply planes, 1 excavator and a zodiac lifeboat