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Spain and Portugal brace for storm Marta after devastating weather
Spain and Portugal are facing a new challenge as communities prepare for the impending storm Marta. This comes just days after storm Leonardo caused significant damage, leading to at least two fatalities and displacing over 11,000 residents.
In light of the approaching storm, Portuguese authorities have deployed over 26,500 rescuers to assist affected areas. The severe weather has already resulted in the postponement of presidential elections in three municipalities, underscoring the critical nature of the situation.
Aftermath of storm Leonardo
The aftermath of storm Leonardo has left a lasting impact, with both Spain and Portugal grappling with severe flooding. Roads are submerged, train services have been disrupted, and thousands are displaced. The National Meteorological Institute of Portugal has issued warnings for further flooding. Forecasts indicate intense rainfall, strong winds, and turbulent seas are expected.
In Spain, regions including Andalusia and the northwest are under orange alerts for potential storms. The national meteorological agency, AEMET, warns that while the upcoming rainfall may not match the extremes seen during storm Leonardo, the already saturated ground significantly raises the risk of flooding and landslides.
Widespread evacuations and ongoing risks
The aftermath of recent storms continues to pose significant dangers as many residents remain at risk. Heavy rainfall across Andalusia has exacerbated initial flooding, resulting in further evacuations. Numerous roads remain impassable, and rail services have been largely suspended. Officials urge residents to restrict travel to essential journeys only.
Mario Silvestre, commander of Portugal’s civil protection agency, expressed grave concern regarding current forecasts, labeling them as extremely worrying. Juan Manuel Moreno, president of the Andalusia region, echoed these warnings on social media, stating that local rivers have reached perilous levels.
Government responses and public safety measures
Both the Spanish and Portuguese governments are intensifying efforts to safeguard their citizens amidst ongoing challenges. Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has warned that damages from recent storms could exceed four billion euros (approximately $4.7 billion). The nation is still grappling with the aftermath of Storm Kristin, which has already led to considerable casualties and extensive property damage.
In a demonstration of solidarity, local authorities are mobilizing resources to assist those affected. In Alcacer do Sal, a town severely impacted by flooding, many residents have been forced to evacuate, often leaving with nothing but the clothes on their backs. One resident expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “I’m left with nothing, nothing,” underscoring the precarious circumstances faced by numerous families.
Environmental concerns and future threats
Geological experts warn that recent weather patterns may lead to significant complications. In the Grazalema mountains, known for their unique geological formations, the risk of landslides has increased due to soil saturation. This area features permeable rock, which can collapse when overly saturated, posing additional risks to residents and infrastructure.
As Storm Marta approaches, the cumulative effects of previous storms have placed immense pressure on local river systems. The Tagus River is under close scrutiny as officials monitor water levels. The potential for further flooding remains a major concern for authorities.
As Spain and Portugal prepare for the effects of another storm, they face the ongoing reality of severe weather. Recent flooding incidents highlight the challenges these nations encounter from nature’s unpredictability. The upcoming days will test their resilience as they confront the immediate threat posed by this latest storm.