At least 51 people lost their lives in the flood disaster that affected some parts of the country in Spain.

Yesterday, heavy rains flooded roads and towns, causing vehicles to drift through streets, derail a train and damage homes and buildings.

Authorities in the hardest-hit areas had advised people to stay at home and avoid non-essential travel.

At least 51 people have died in floods affecting southeast Spain, emergency services said.

There were children among those killed in the Valencia region.

In Letur, near Sierra de Segura, 30 people were trapped after the river flowing through the town overflowed.

Dozens of videos shared on social media show people stranded in flood waters, many holding on to trees to avoid being swept away. Authorities used helicopters to rescue some residents from their homes.

Other videos shared by Spanish broadcasters show flood waters rising to the lower floors of houses and even carrying cars along the street.

Radio and TV stations received hundreds of calls for help from people stranded in flooded areas or looking for loved ones, as emergency services were unable to reach all affected areas.

Transportation was seriously affected due to the flood.

A high-speed train with about 300 people on board derailed near Malaga, but authorities said no one was injured.

Rail lines elsewhere were also disrupted.