**Spain Faces Persistent Rains Amid Search Efforts and Rising Death Toll**

In the wake of last week’s devastating floods, Spain finds itself grappling with yet more rainfall, as emergency workers continue their search for victims. The floods have provoked an intense national debate on accountability and preparedness, with emotions running high across the country.

On Monday, the Spanish government deployed hundreds more troops to the Mediterranean coast in response to pleas from families seeking help to locate loved ones. The efforts of thousands of soldiers and police officers, already stationed in the region, were hindered by additional rain, which reached nearly a foot in some areas. By late morning, Barcelona had recorded six inches, with forecasts predicting up to another five inches to come.

The country’s meteorological agency issued warnings of heavy rains in the coastal provinces of Castellón, Tarragona, and Barcelona. This natural disaster has so far claimed 215 lives, as reported by the Interior Ministry, fueling public outcry over whether timely warnings were issued.

The chaos extended to air travel, with numerous flight cancellations and diversions at Barcelona's international airport, where flooding disrupted terminal operations. Meanwhile, Valencia, the hardest-hit region from last week's flash floods, braced for more rain that further complicated ongoing rescue missions.

Public frustration has been directed at local and national authorities. Although weather warnings were disseminated days before the storm peaked, the regional government of Valencia delayed sending formal alerts via text message until floodwaters had already begun to rise. This delay has been a focal point of the resentment expressed by locals.

Tensions boiled over in the town of Paiporta on Sunday, where protestors hurled insults and mud at King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Carlos Mazón, the leader of the Valencia region. The incident has sparked debate over the actions, or perceived inaction, of political leaders during critical moments of the flooding.

While some criticize Mr. Mazón and regional officials for their delayed response, others hold the national government accountable for not managing the emergency more swiftly. For their part, King Felipe and Queen Letizia, though merely symbolic leaders, faced mixed reactions during their visit to flood-ravaged areas. Though the King attempted to address the anger and frustration of the public, some viewed his presence as an unnecessary distraction.

Transport Minister Óscar Puente stated that the royal visit, although well-intentioned, might have been poorly timed, reflecting the national mood of discontent and the urgent need for a coordinated and effective response to the disaster.

As Spain endures further rainfall, the challenge remains to balance rescue and relief efforts with addressing the grievances of its citizens, who demand accountability and decisive action in these trying times.