Storm Leonardo Triggers Evacuations and Park Closure Across Spain

Storm Leonardo, the sixth major storm hitting Spain and Portugal in 2026, continues to cause severe flooding and disruption across the Iberian Peninsula. Thousands have been evacuated in southern Spain due to intense rains, while a woman remains missing in the region amid swollen river waters, as reported by authorities. In Portugal, one death has been attributed to the storm, with the Tajo River reaching critical levels that triggered a red alert and mandatory evacuations in the Santarém district.

In Ávila, Spain, the rising water levels of the Adaja River forced the closure and sealing off of the popular El Soto park to ensure public safety. Strong winds accompanying the storm led to emergency interventions for damage caused by falling debris and shattered glass on several streets, including Vara del Rey, Vallespín, and Bilbao, as well as at the church of San Andrés, where structural detritus was noted.

The Spanish state meteorological agency, Aemet, highlights that Storm Leonardo is part of an alarming pattern of extreme weather heightened by climate change, which has also brought longer and earlier heatwaves alongside these heavy rain events to the region. Local authorities continue to respond proactively to mitigate damage and protect residents as Leonardo's impacts unfold.