Storm Leonardo

Storm Leonardo, one of several storms to impact the Iberian Peninsula in early 2026, brought torrential rain and strong winds to Spain and Portugal. The slow-moving system caused widespread disruption, flooding, and evacuations, leading to at least two deaths – one in each country. Over 11,000 residents were displaced, and significant damage was reported, including millions of euros in crop losses. The storm prompted the deployment of over 26,500 rescuers in Portugal and led to calls to postpone the presidential election due to the severe weather. The event is newsworthy due to the fatalities, extensive damage, and the strain on resources as the region simultaneously dealt with subsequent storms like Kristin and Marta. The ongoing recovery efforts and the need for continued vigilance against future storms highlight the event's significance.