Storms Leonardo and Marta Trigger Severe Flooding Across Spain and Portugal

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Spain and Portugal are grappling with widespread flooding and damage as Storms Leonardo and Marta sweep across the Iberian Peninsula, inundating towns, disrupting daily life and forcing thousands to flee their homes. Both weather systems have brought intense rainfall, swollen rivers and urgent warnings from authorities.

Storm Leonardo, which struck earlier in the week, unleashed torrential downpours that caused rivers to burst their banks across parts of southern Spain and central Portugal. The deluge submerged streets, flooded residential areas and led to mass evacuations in flood-prone zones. At least one person died in Portugal and another lost their life in Spain during the storm’s passage, while emergency crews worked continuously to relocate residents and keep roads clear.

Communities near rivers such as the Sado in Alcácer do Sal and the Douro in Porto saw water levels rise sharply, leaving riverside cafés underwater and prompting localized overflow. Rescue teams in both countries mobilised to assist those affected and shepherd people to safety.

Just days later, Storm Marta followed closely behind, delivering further heavy rain and strengthening flood risks in already saturated landscapes. Civil protection agencies in Portugal deployed tens of thousands of rescuers and volunteers as municipalities prepared for continued flooding. In some areas, the severity of the weather forced the postponement of local events, including a presidential vote in parts of Portugal, underscoring the disruption caused by the series of storms.

Officials in both Spain and Portugal issued weather alerts, warning residents of possible flash floods, landslides and coastal hazards as gusty winds and rainfall continued to batter the region. Roads have been blocked or closed in multiple areas, rail services disrupted, and evacuation orders issued for low-lying communities.

In southern Spain’s Andalusia, local farmers described catastrophic damage to crops inundated by floodwaters, with thousands of hectares of farmland submerged and agricultural losses mounting into the millions of euros. Authorities in Portugal similarly reported significant agricultural and infrastructure impacts as the storms linger.

Meteorologists have warned that further rain and unstable weather patterns could continue into the coming days, prolonging risks for residents and responders alike. With rivers remaining at high levels and ground saturation already extreme, officials urged caution and preparedness as the region braces for ongoing weather threats.