What's happened
Since late January 2026, a series of unprecedented storms have battered Spain and Portugal, causing at least 16 deaths, widespread flooding, and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture. Thousands have been evacuated, schools closed, and power outages reported. Authorities warn of ongoing flood risks as rivers near capacity and further rain is forecast across the Iberian Peninsula.
What's behind the headline?
Unprecedented Storm Train and Its Implications
The Iberian Peninsula is experiencing what meteorologists call a "storm train," a rare sequence of consecutive storms causing cumulative damage. This pattern is extraordinary both in frequency and intensity, with rainfall in Spain 38% above average since October 2025. The saturation of soils and rivers at or near capacity has amplified flood risks, leading to evacuations and infrastructure failures.
Climate Adaptation Deficits
Experts like Pedro Matos Soares highlight Portugal's outdated land-use planning, which fails to account for current and future climate realities. The repeated flooding and storm damage underscore a systemic lack of preparedness for extreme weather events intensified by climate change.
Human and Economic Toll
Fatalities have occurred both directly from flooding and indirectly, such as injuries sustained during desperate home repairs. Agricultural losses are significant, with preliminary estimates of €750 million in Portugal alone, affecting crops like olives, berries, and vegetables. The economic impact extends beyond agriculture to infrastructure and power supply disruptions.
Political and Social Consequences
The storms have triggered political fallout, including the resignation of Portugal's interior minister amid criticism of emergency response. Opposition parties and far-right figures have used the crisis to challenge government competence. Public frustration is palpable as communities face repeated evacuations and property losses.
Forecast and Outlook
With further rain forecast and rivers like the Mondego and Guadalquivir near or at peak levels, the risk of additional flooding and landslides remains high. Authorities must balance immediate emergency response with long-term climate adaptation strategies to mitigate future disasters. The ongoing crisis will likely accelerate debates on infrastructure resilience and environmental policy in both countries.
What the papers say
Reuters reports extensively on the scale of evacuations and damage, noting that "this succession of eight storms ... is truly extraordinary," according to Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas. The Guardian's Sam Jones provides insight into the political ramifications, highlighting the resignation of Portugal's interior minister Maria Lúcia Amaral and expert criticism of outdated climate adaptation policies. France 24 and Al Jazeera emphasize the human impact, with accounts of flooded towns, displaced residents, and the staggering economic toll, including a €4 billion reconstruction estimate after Storm Kristin. Sky News and AP News focus on individual tragedies, such as the death of a woman in Barcelona hit by falling debris and a man swept away by floodwaters in Portugal. These sources collectively paint a comprehensive picture of a region grappling with an unprecedented natural disaster compounded by systemic vulnerabilities and political challenges.
How we got here
The Iberian Peninsula has been hit by an extraordinary succession of storms since late January 2026, including Storms Kristin, Leonardo, and Marta. These have brought heavy rain, snow, and strong winds, leading to saturated soils, overflowing rivers, and widespread flooding. The storms have exposed vulnerabilities in regional infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
Go deeper
- What caused the recent storms in Spain and Portugal?
- How are authorities responding to the flooding and evacuations?
- What are the long-term climate adaptation plans for the Iberian Peninsula?
Common question
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How Are European Countries Coping With the Recent Storms and Flooding?
Recent storms, including Leonardo and Marta, have caused severe flooding and damage across southern Spain and Portugal. Authorities are actively managing rescue efforts, issuing safety advice, and preparing for more severe weather. If you're wondering how these countries are handling the crisis, what areas are most affected, and what the future holds, read on for detailed answers to your questions.
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What Are the Key Impacts of Recent Severe Weather Events Across Europe?
Recent storms across Europe, including heavy rainfall and flooding in Spain and Portugal, have caused widespread damage and disruption. Communities are facing evacuations, infrastructure damage, and economic losses. But what exactly are the main impacts of these severe weather events? Below, we explore how these storms are affecting local areas, what damage has been done, and what experts say about future risks.
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How Are Europe’s Storms Impacting Daily Life and Infrastructure?
Severe storms like Leonardo and Marta are causing widespread flooding and disruptions across southern Spain and Portugal. These weather events are not only affecting daily routines but also straining emergency services and infrastructure. Curious about which areas are most affected, how authorities are responding, and whether climate change is making these storms more frequent? Read on to find out more about the ongoing crisis and what it means for residents and policymakers alike.
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How are European countries coping with recent storms and flooding?
Recent storms like Marta have caused severe flooding and damage across Spain and Portugal. As these extreme weather events become more frequent, many are wondering how countries are responding and what residents can do to stay safe. Below, we answer common questions about the impact of these storms and the ongoing risks in the region.
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How Are Global Events Shaping Regional and International Politics Today?
Recent weather disasters and ongoing conflicts are significantly influencing the geopolitical landscape. From severe storms in Iberia to escalating tensions in Gaza, these events are reshaping alliances, regional power balances, and international norms. Curious about how these developments impact global diplomacy and regional stability? Below are some key questions and answers to help you understand the current state of world politics.
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What Are the Latest Major Weather Events in Europe and Their Impact?
Recent storms across Europe have caused significant flooding, fatalities, and widespread damage. From Spain and Portugal to France, these weather events are raising concerns about climate resilience and emergency preparedness. Curious about what's happening, how many people are affected, and what measures are in place? Read on for the most important updates and answers to your questions about Europe's current weather crisis.
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