Storm Marta Triggers Widespread Evacuations Across Iberian Peninsula
A powerful storm system has unleashed chaos across Spain and Portugal, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes as heavy rains and flooding wreak havoc. The severe weather, driven by a relentless 'storm train' of consecutive winds and precipitation, has already led to tragic fatalities and significant infrastructural damage.
Tragic Losses and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
In Portugal, a man believed to be around 70 years old lost his life in the southern Alentejo region on Wednesday after his vehicle was swept away by raging floodwaters. Local authorities confirmed the incident, highlighting the perilous conditions. Meanwhile, in Malaga, Spain, police discovered a body on Friday near the location where a woman was reportedly swept away by a river while attempting to rescue her dog. These incidents underscore the deadly risks posed by the extreme weather.
Escalating Storm Threats and Emergency Responses
Storm Leonardo initially struck the Iberian Peninsula on Tuesday, but the situation has intensified with the arrival of Storm Marta. The Spanish state weather agency, AEMET, has issued warnings that Marta is expected to bring additional rain and snow to the region on Saturday. In response, emergency crews have been working tirelessly, rescuing not only people but also pets, as seen in dramatic footage of dogs being saved from floodwaters.
Authorities have mandated evacuations for thousands of residents amid fears of further flooding. Nearly 170 roads have been closed across Spain, and Portuguese rail services have faced severe disruptions. Areas near the Guadalquivir River in Cordoba, Spain, were evacuated overnight due to a dramatic rise in water levels, with images showing submerged playgrounds and flooded streets.
Agricultural and Economic Impacts
The torrential rains have devastated agricultural sectors in both countries. Spanish farmers report fields submerged under water, causing millions of euros in crop damage. Miguel Angel Perez of the farmers' organisation COAG in Andalusia's Cadiz province described the situation as a 'real natural catastrophe,' with crops like broccoli, carrots, and cauliflowers inundated across thousands of hectares.
Portugal's agriculture ministry has provided preliminary estimates, indicating losses from the storms could reach approximately £650 million (750 million euros). This economic blow compounds the human toll, as communities grapple with displacement and destruction.
Regional Leaders and Environmental Concerns
Andalusia's regional leader, Juan Manuel Moreno, warned at a press conference that an expected 30mm of rainwater on Saturday poses a significant threat due to saturated soil and overflowing rivers. 'In other circumstances that would be little water, but right now it is a lot as the soil is unable to drain and the rivers and reservoirs are full,' he explained.
In Grazalema, a mountainous Spanish village, 1,500 residents were evacuated as water seeped through walls. The area faces additional risks from permeable rock formations that could dissolve under excessive water absorption, potentially leading to structural collapse.
Government Actions and Community Resilience
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro announced an extension of a state of calamity in 69 municipalities until mid-February, citing 'unprecedented' rainfall and flood risks. Mario Silvestre, commander of Portugal's ANEPC civil protection service, noted that six rivers are at risk of major flooding, with the Tagus river basin placed on red alert due to abrupt water flow increases.
Residents in affected areas, such as Alcacer do Sal in Portugal, have shared harrowing stories of fleeing with only the clothes on their backs. 'I'm left with nothing,' one resident told Reuters, echoing the widespread sense of loss. Volunteers have been instrumental in aiding evacuations and distributing donations to displaced families, showcasing community solidarity in the face of adversity.
As Storm Marta continues to batter the region, authorities urge vigilance and preparedness, with ongoing efforts to mitigate further damage and support those impacted by this extreme weather event.
