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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SAA Sees Growth in International Routes and Expands Market Share: What New Updates You Need to Know

In December 2025, South African Airways (SAA) achieved significant growth in the regional and international markets, especially outside South Africa. An increase in the number of flights and capacity for each flight provided the basis for SAA’s international growth, supporting the ongoing recovery of international demand for air travel.

SAA strengthened its position in the African and international markets, despite a slight decrease in market share on domestic routes. The airline achieved a regional market share of 41% and an international market share of 52% in December 2025. This was an impressive result, especially considering the market disruptions caused by COVID-19.

Domestic Route Competition Remains Fierce

With the strong international market growth, SAA continued to face challenges on the domestic routes, where it had only a 24% market share in December 2025. The presence of low-cost carriers and private airlines on domestic routes continues to create significant competition. South African domestic carriers in particular offer lower fares and more frequent flights.

Regardless, SAA’s unwavering commitment to its fleet and services shows a long-term plan to strengthen its competitive foothold domestically and abroad. In December 2025, the airline experienced increasing demand on some key international routes, showcasing the airline’s ability to diversify its services.

Growing Demand on International Destinations

The highest demand growth was recorded on international routes to Mauritius, Lagos, and Perth. SAA is attracting increasing numbers of passengers on these routes as the airline continues to broaden its international service offerings. These cities, all vastly popular in different parts of the world, showcase SAA’s increasing ability to serve a wide variety of international travelers. The demand growth on these routes offered the airline the opportunity to use its flexible network to provide optimal service to these high-demand international markets. This also demonstrates the continued gains in worldwide travel speed after being stimulated by the global pandemic in the past years.

Outlook 2026: Operational Improvements and New Connectivity

After operational improvements and new enhancements to customer experience, SAA should have a more stable operation in 2026. SAA will look to improve performance and reliability of the fleet. SAA will also look to improve strengthening regional connectivity and global airline partnerships to improve scope and seamless travel for customers.

SAA has, in step with the company’s objectives, increased the number of codeshare agreements with various global airlines, including some of the big names: Emirates, Lufthansa, Kenya Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air Mauritius, and Turkish Airlines. By March 2026, SAA will also have partnerships with LAM Mozambique, Air New Zealand, and several other airlines, giving SAA a larger global network covering Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia.

With the new airlines, SAA customers will be able to enjoy all the benefits of seamless and continent-spanning travel with integrated and coordinated flight schedules and baggage services.

Star Alliance Partnerships Enhance Worldwide Access

South African Airways is a member of Star Alliance, which means that with any ticket purchase on the airline, customers can travel to numerous destinations worldwide. Star Alliance is one of the largest airline alliances around the globe. As a member, SAA is able to offer customers convenient travel connections around the world. Combined with its codeshare agreements, the airline offers customers top-tier airline access to and from South Africa.

The Future of SAA

The airline’s success in December 2025 showed that SAA is committed to improving its regional and international airline service, in all its sectors, for the airline’s new positioning for 2026. SAA will continue to provide dependable and efficient service, focused on its customers, while expanding SAA’s access around the globe.

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Pico Island Airport Expansion Accelerates Azores Tourism Growth from Pico in 2026: What You Need to Know

Pico Island in the Azores, Portugal positions for tourism transformation as regional authorities establish a working group to finalize runway expansion at Pico Airport, enhancing connectivity for 2026 and beyond. Government decrees emphasize improved operations, reduced flight cancellations, and increased passenger capacity, directly supporting Pico Island tourism. This initiative addresses long-standing infrastructure needs in the UNESCO-protected Landscape of the Pico Island Vineyard Culture, promising surges in eco-conscious visitors.

Expanded capacity will elevate Azores tourism by facilitating direct access to Pico‘s volcanic trails and wine heritage. Pico Island tourism anticipates doubled arrivals, revitalizing local economies.

Runway Extension Targets Tourism Reliability

Runway lengthening at Pico Airport aims to accommodate larger aircraft and maximum takeoff weights, minimizing weather-related disruptions critical for Azores tourism. Official regional transport studies from 2023 and 2025 validate westward extension feasibility without axis rotation, optimizing landings. Fewer cancellations will stabilize Pico Island tourism schedules, attracting seasonal adventure seekers.

Reliable tourism flights encourage group bookings, extending stays. Azores tourism benefits from resilient island links.

Working Group Coordinates Tourism Financing

The dedicated task force, comprising regional directors and local stakeholders, evaluates technical options and secures funding for Pico Airport upgrades. Government gazettes outline synergies with national and EU institutions, bypassing sole reliance on structural funds. This collaborative approach accelerates Pico Island tourism infrastructure, aligning with PO2030 investment priorities.

Streamlined financing unlocks tourism projects, fostering job creation. Azores tourism gains momentum through unified efforts.

UNESCO Compliance Safeguards Tourism Integrity

Expansion planning integrates protections for Pico‘s World Heritage vineyard landscape surrounding the airport, per regional environmental mandates. Preliminary assessments ensure minimal habitat impact, preserving authenticity for heritage tourism. Sustainable designs will enhance Pico Island tourism appeal to cultural travelers exploring lava stonewalls. Protected tourism sustains global prestige, drawing premium visitors. Azores tourism balances growth with conservation.

Operational Enhancements Drive Tourism Capacity

Upgraded facilities promise higher cargo and commercial throughput, supporting Pico Airport as a vital Azores tourism node. Regional aviation data projects thirty percent passenger growth post-expansion, rivaling Ponta Delgada upgrades. Pico Island tourism diversifies beyond Ponta Delgada dependencies. Increased tourism seats fill wine tours and whale-watching circuits. Azores inter-island tourism strengthens connectivity.

Reduced Cancellations Boost Tourism Confidence

Weather vulnerabilities currently plague Pico Airport approaches, but expansion studies propose efficiency solutions for safer operations. Government analyses confirm extension benefits for all-weather reliability, curbing seasonal tourism losses. Travelers gain predictability, spurring spontaneous Pico Island tourism. Confident tourism planning elevates occupancy rates year-round. Azores tourism minimizes downtime risks.

SATA Integration Amplifies Tourism Networks

Coordination with SATA Air Açores and Azores Airlines ensures fleet compatibility, per working group inclusions. Regional carrier inputs from 2025 studies optimize inter-island hops, integral to Azores tourism. Pico Airport evolves into a seamless hub for archipelago exploration. Enhanced networks cascade visitors across islands, multiplying tourism spends. Pico Island tourism feeds regional circuits.

Cargo Capacity Supports Tourism Logistics

Freight expansions facilitate wine exports and supply chains, underpinning Pico‘s vineyard economy intertwined with tourism. Official infrastructure plans link cargo growth to visitor services, sustaining artisanal experiences. Robust logistics will attract foodie Azores tourism segments. Supply reliability elevates dining and retail tourism. Pico Island tourism leverages export synergies.

Local Municipalities Champion Tourism Advocacy

Pico’s Association of Municipalities actively defends expansion before UNESCO, demonstrating community commitment to Azores tourism. Joint action plans with regional government secure institutional cooperation, vital for funding. Grassroots support accelerates Pico Island tourism advocacy.

Community-backed tourism fosters authentic welcomes, boosting reviews. Azores tourism thrives on local alliances.

EU and National Funding Pathways Open

Strategic partnerships explore EU cohesion funds and national budgets, circumventing standalone grants for Pico Airport. Regional secretariats prioritize mobility infrastructure, projecting quick execution post-2026 decisions. Diversified financing ensures Pico Island tourism timelines. Prompt funding deploys tourism infrastructure swiftly. Azores tourism captures competitive edges.

Vineyard Tourism Synergies Emerge

Airport proximity to UNESCO vineyards positions expansion as a catalyst for enotourism in Pico. Government heritage strategies promote trails linking runways to wine cellars, enriching immersive tourism. Enhanced access will surge guided tours and tastings. Heritage tourism commands premium pricing, funding preservations. Pico Island tourism spotlights viticultural uniqueness.

Whale Watching and Adventure Tourism Flourish

Improved airlift supports Pico‘s marine adventures, with reliable flights feeding boat charters. Regional biodiversity reports highlight whale migration alignments, drawing nature enthusiasts. Azores tourism amplifies through Pico Airport‘s role. Adventure tourism packages proliferate, targeting families. Pico Island tourism diversifies experiences.

Economic Multipliers Transform Tourism Impacts

Projections estimate millions in annual tourism injections for Pico, per regional economic models. Hospitality and transport sectors gain thousands of jobs, rippling through vineyards. Infrastructure elevates Azores tourism GDP contributions. Tourism multipliers sustain communities, funding education. Pico Island tourism anchors prosperity.

Marketing Campaigns Propel Tourism Visibility

Post-expansion promotions will spotlight Pico Airport‘s enhanced access within Azores tourism branding. Digital campaigns target European and North American markets, leveraging UNESCO status. Visibility surges bookings to volcanic wonders. Global outreach fills seats, optimizing capacities. Azores tourism dominates search trends.

Sustainability Mandates Guide Tourism Design

Eco-assessments embed low-impact materials and noise reductions, aligning with Azores green aviation goals. Government climate strategies mitigate expansion footprints, preserving Pico‘s allure. Sustainable tourism attracts millennials to Pico Island. Green credentials premiumize tourism, ensuring longevity. Azores tourism pioneers responsibility.

Inter-Island Connectivity Strengthens Tourism Loops

Pico Airport upgrades complement Ponta Delgada expansions, forging efficient archipelago networks. Regional transport visions project seamless multi-island itineraries for Azores tourism. Pico integrates as a must-visit pivot. Holistic connectivity maximizes dwell times, boosting spends. Pico Island tourism enriches journeys.

Peak Season Resilience Enhances Tourism Appeal

Summer 2026 trials will test expanded operations, stabilizing high-demand Azores tourism. Fewer disruptions ensure full flights during festivals. Reliability cements Pico‘s seasonal dominance. Peak tourism solidifies revenues, smoothing off-seasons. Pico Island tourism builds loyalty.

Azores Tourism Vision Crystallizes

Pico Island airport evolution heralds Azores tourism renaissance, with working group decisions paving 2026 breakthroughs. Pico emerges as accessible gem amid UNESCO splendor. Sustainable scaling promises enduring vitality. Transformative tourism redefines island futures. Azores captivates globally.

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