Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME)

The Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME), or Military Emergency Unit, is a branch of the Spanish Armed Forces responsible for providing rapid response to disasters and emergencies. Recent news highlights their involvement in two separate incidents. First, they are assisting in Gran Canaria, where the island's government requested their support due to the severe impacts of Storm Therese, including heavy rainfall and flooding. UME personnel are currently using water pumps to mitigate flooding in various locations. Secondly, while not directly involved in the response, the ongoing gas leak emergency in Fuentes de Béjar, Salamanca, demonstrates the type of incident where the UME's expertise might be required, highlighting their role in hazardous material emergencies. These events underscore the UME's significance as a key national resource for disaster relief and emergency management across Spain.