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Storm Leonardo Threatens Portugal and Spain with Severe Flooding and Travel Chaos: The Full Impact of This Powerful Weather System Unfolds
Portugal and Spain are bracing for the arrival of Storm Leonardo, a weather system that is expected to bring severe rainfall and strong winds to the Iberian Peninsula. Authorities have issued warnings across both countries, urging residents to prepare for potential flooding, power outages, and disruption to transport services. This storm follows the aftermath of Storm Kristin, which has already caused considerable damage in the region.
The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) has forecast that Storm Leonardo will begin affecting mainland Portugal from Tuesday afternoon and last until Saturday. Spain is expected to experience the storm’s effects from Wednesday. Meteorologists predict persistent and heavy rainfall, with strong winds reaching gusts of up to 75 km/h along the southern coastal areas of Portugal, with higher gusts in the elevated regions.
Both countries are still recovering from Storm Kristin, which has already wreaked havoc across the Iberian Peninsula. Southern Spain has recorded its wettest winter in almost four decades, with the persistent rain raising concerns about river flooding and damage to drainage systems. In Portugal, Daniele Fraga, deputy commander of the national emergency and civil protection authority ANEPC, warned that the heavy rain could lead to more floods, particularly in areas that were previously affected by Storm Kristin.
The Intensifying Flood Risk in Portugal and Spain
The expected rainfall from Storm Leonardo is set to further complicate the already critical flooding situation across the Iberian Peninsula. Meteorologists are predicting that rainfall levels could reach up to 250 millimetres in certain areas within a 24-hour period, significantly raising the chances of flash floods and landslides.
- Portugal is particularly vulnerable in the Leiria region, where nearly 95,000 households are still without power due to previous storms.
- Southern Spain is under high alert, especially in the Grazalema mountains, where significant rainfall is expected.
The authorities are focusing their efforts on monitoring the risk of flash floods and landslides, particularly in mountainous and coastal areas.
Emergency Measures and Government Response
Portugal’s government has activated emergency measures in response to the worsening weather conditions. The country’s electricity distribution company, E-Redes, confirmed that nearly 134,000 households remain without power, with 95,000 homes in the Leiria region still waiting for services to be restored. Power outages remain one of the most pressing issues as the storm approaches.
In response to the destruction caused by Storm Kristin, the Portuguese government has announced a €2.5 billion relief package to support affected households and businesses. This financial package will assist in rebuilding efforts, which include the restoration of homes, schools, roads, and factories. At Monte Real air base, the storm caused damage to several F-16 fighter jets, highlighting the storm’s widespread effects.
The Spanish government has also issued similar emergency alerts, focusing on areas in southern Spain, where authorities are preparing for the possibility of flooding and landslides. Experts warn that if rainfall exceeds predictions, the situation could worsen rapidly.
Travel and Transportation Disruptions
With Storm Leonardo expected to affect both Portugal and Spain in the coming days, travel disruptions are anticipated across the region. Airports, railways, and roads are likely to face significant delays and closures as authorities prioritise safety measures. In Portugal, the storm’s impact on power and infrastructure has already delayed transport services in affected regions.
Spain’s southern regions are also bracing for disruption to transport services, particularly in Andalusia and the Canary Islands, where authorities are preparing for flash floods that could hinder road access and delay flights.
- Flight cancellations and delays are expected to increase as airports in both countries work to manage the high winds and potential damage to runways.
- Train services are also likely to be impacted, with major lines facing delays or closures, particularly across southern Spain.
What Tourists Should Know
For tourists planning to visit Portugal and Spain this week, it’s essential to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions. While both countries remain open to visitors, tourists are advised to monitor official weather updates and follow local authorities’ guidance.
- Tourists in flood-prone regions should avoid venturing into areas with high water levels and stay clear of any coastal regions experiencing storm surges.
- Visitors to Spain and Portugal should also be prepared for possible delays and disruptions in transport services, particularly in the southern parts of both countries.
Local authorities and emergency services are on high alert, ensuring that timely evacuations and shelter options are in place should conditions worsen.
The Future of Storm Preparedness in Portugal and Spain
As Storm Leonardo makes its way across the Iberian Peninsula, both Portugal and Spain are working hard to manage the immediate aftermath of the storm. The region’s recovery from Storm Kristin serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather patterns in the face of climate change.
Both governments are committed to improving storm preparedness in the future, with an emphasis on flood management and emergency response systems. Efforts to strengthen infrastructure and develop better forecasting technology are already underway, with the aim of minimising the disruption caused by future storms.
As the storm continues to approach, authorities are calling for citizens and visitors alike to stay vigilant and follow all safety instructions. The region remains on high alert, with emergency response teams ready to act as necessary.
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