Portugal and Spain prepare for potential new storm following recent flooding

Portugal Deploys Large-Scale Rescue Efforts Ahead of Storm Marta

Authorities in Portugal have mobilized over 26,500 rescuers as Storm Marta approaches, with severe weather warnings issued for the entire country. The deployment comes after recent heavy rains caused widespread flooding and displacement in both Portugal and Spain.

Storm Marta is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas, prompting authorities to issue orange alerts across the country. In Spain, much of the south, particularly Andalusia, and the northwest are under orange alert for heavy rain and violent storms.

Portugal’s civil protection agency has described the forecast as “extremely worrying”, while officials in Spain have warned of gusts of wind reaching 110 kilometres per hour and landslides. Residents in affected areas have reported significant damage, with one municipal employee describing the floodwaters as having broken through windows and doors.

The storm follows recent severe weather events, including Storm Leonardo, which killed at least two people and forced over 11,000 residents to evacuate their homes. Portugal’s National Meteorological Institute has placed the entire coastline on orange alert due to heavy seas, with waves reaching up to 13 metres high.

In Spain, much of the south and northwest are also under warning, with officials urging residents to limit travel wherever possible. The storm is expected to bring significant rainfall, although less than that experienced during Storm Leonardo.

The impact of Storm Marta on Portugal’s economy has been estimated at over four billion euros ($4.7bn), following the recent effects of Storm Kristin.

Source: Al Jazeera