As Storm Leonardo lashed the Iberian Peninsula, it left destruction in its wake, claiming lives and displacing residents. In Portugal, floodwaters resulted in a man’s death, while a girl remained missing in Spain after a swollen river swept her away. Authorities continue to manage the tumultuous weather conditions.
In Spain’s Andalusia region, the storm triggered massive evacuations and infrastructural challenges, with nearly 4,000 people leaving their homes. Floodwaters and landslides have hindered travel, closing numerous roads. While the highest alert level has been lowered, forecasts predict another storm system looms for the weekend.
Portugal’s Alcacer do Sal region, near Lisbon, bore the brunt of the storm’s force with the Sado River spilling into urban areas. Anticipated rain threatens to exacerbate the situation as the country braces for further impact. The recent storm echoes the destruction seen in January, which also resulted in fatalities.
(With inputs from agencies.)