Under water, in denial: is Europe drowning out the climate crisis?

The Guardian World

by Ajit Niranjan

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Europe is grappling with a growing disconnect between worsening climate extremes and political efforts to rollback environmental protections. While weather-related disasters become more severe, influential voices are pushing to undo regulations aimed at combating climate change. This tension is underscored by the tragic story of two Spanish men who lost their lives in a devastating flood caused by heavy rains during a typically quiet holiday season. The incident occurred between Christmas and New Year’s, when Francisco Zea Bravo and Antonio Morales Serrano, lifelong friends and pillars of their community, went out for dinner in Málaga. Returning home to Alhaurín el Grande, they encountered an unprecedented torrential downpour that transformed the usually calm Fahala River into a dangerous force. Police discovered their van overturned the next day, followed by the recovery of their bodies after an agonizing search. This heartbreaking event highlights the growing frequency and intensity of weather-related disasters in Europe. The rains that claimed their lives were part of a broader pattern of extreme weather events across the continent, from heatwaves to floods, which scientists link to climate change. Despite these clear signs of a changing environment, political movements advocating for weaker environmental regulations are gaining traction, creating a dangerous divide between acknowledging the crisis and taking action. The story of Zea Bravo and Morales Serrano serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of inaction on climate change. Their loss underscores the urgent need to address environmental policies rather than roll them back. As Europe faces increasing threats from extreme weather, balancing economic interests with environmental protections will be critical to ensuring future generations can thrive. This issue is not just a political debate—it’s a matter of life and death for communities like Alhaurín el Grande.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/21/2026