The aftermath of Storm Leonardo in Andalusia has become a true ordeal for the region’s residents. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in the hardest-hit areas. This decision comes in response to widespread destruction, mass evacuations, and the threat of further flooding, which continue to strain both the local population and emergency services.
First and foremost, attention is focused on those forced to leave their homes. Over 3,500 people have been evacuated due to rapidly rising river levels and the threat of flooding. The situation is especially dire in the provinces of Cádiz, Málaga, Jaén, and Granada, where the storm has caused the most damage. Thousands of rescuers are working in these areas, coordinating efforts with local authorities and ensuring residents’ safety.
Critical situation
Particularly concerning are the rivers, where 38 dangerous stretches have been classified at red alert level. Most of these are on the Guadalquivir, as well as the Guadiana. Authorities warn that water levels continue to rise, with the peak flood expected in the coming days. This could lead to further evacuations and additional damage to infrastructure.
In response to the threat, more than 6,000 emergency workers have been mobilized. They are patrolling high-risk areas around the clock, assisting evacuees, and addressing the aftermath of the storm. Authorities are already preparing emergency payments and support for affected families and businesses to minimize economic losses and speed up recovery.
Government response
Deputy Prime Minister María Jesús Montero emphasized that the central government will closely cooperate with regional and municipal authorities. She thanked the mayors who are actively involved in organizing aid efforts, but refrained from commenting on the regional government of Andalucía. Authorities promise to take all necessary measures to protect people and ensure a swift return to normal life.
At a press conference in Sevilla, government representatives noted that the final list of areas officially designated as especially affected will be determined after a full assessment of the damage. This will allow for a more accurate calculation of financial support and help set recovery priorities.
Anticipating further threats
The situation remains tense as meteorologists predict further increases in river water levels. According to Deputy Government Representative in Sevilla Francisco Toscano, the peak of the flooding may come at the end of the week. This raises the risk of new inundations and forces emergency services to remain on high alert.
Amid this uncertainty, authorities urge residents to stay vigilant and follow the instructions of rescue teams. In the coming days, an additional assessment of the damage will be carried out, after which it will become clear which areas will receive the status of especially affected and qualify for state aid.
Event background
Recalling recent events, it should be noted that Storm Leonardo has already caused major disruptions in the transport system and the closure of schools in Andalucía. Hundreds of roads were blocked, and thousands of residents were forced to leave their homes. A detailed analysis of these events and their impact on everyday life in the region can be found in the article at RUSSPAIN.COM, which covers the first days after the impact of the disaster and how local authorities and residents dealt with the aftermath.
Similar disasters
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly faced destructive natural phenomena. For example, in 2023, heavy rains and flooding in Murcia and Valencia led to mass evacuations and significant losses for agriculture. In 2024, a similar situation occurred in Catalonia, where torrential rains flooded entire neighborhoods, and the restoration of infrastructure took several months. Each time, such events become a serious test for local residents and require a rapid response from the authorities. The experience of past years shows that timely declaration of a state of emergency and coordination of efforts by all services help minimize the consequences and speed up the return to normal life.
