Spain and Portugal are currently enduring a relentless onslaught of severe weather, with Storm Martinho marking the fourth major storm to hit the Iberian Peninsula in just twelve days. Following closely on the heels of Storms Jana, Konrad, and Laurence, Martinho is unleashing powerful winds, torrential rains, and massive waves, leading to widespread disruptions and raising serious concerns for residents and travelers alike.​

A Relentless Series of Storms

The unprecedented sequence of storms began with Jana, followed by Konrad and Laurence, each leaving a trail of destruction. Storm Laurence, in particular, caused significant flooding, especially in Andalusia, leading to evacuations and extensive property damage. The arrival of Storm Martinho exacerbates an already critical situation, with authorities issuing severe weather warnings across both countries.​

Impact on Spain

In Spain, regions such as Galicia are bracing for Martinho’s impact. Meteorological agencies have issued severe weather alerts, forecasting strong winds of up to 70 km/h, with mountainous areas potentially experiencing gusts up to 100 km/h. Coastal regions are on high alert for rough sea conditions, with waves expected to reach up to six meters, particularly along the Costa da Morte and Rías Baixas.

The continuous heavy rainfall has also filled reservoirs to capacity, ending a four-year drought but causing authorities to release excess water to prevent dam overflows. This action has led to further flooding, with roads submerged and communities isolated. The rapid succession of storms has left emergency services stretched thin as they respond to widespread incidents of flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage.

Impact on Portugal

Portugal is facing similar challenges, with the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issuing orange weather warnings for regions including Lisbon, Faro, and Madeira. Forecasts predict heavy rainfall, strong winds reaching up to 110 km/h, and waves potentially exceeding ten meters. These conditions pose significant risks of coastal flooding and have led to disruptions in both air and maritime travel. ​

In Madeira and Porto Santo, authorities anticipate heavy precipitation and strong winds, with gusts possibly reaching 120 km/h in higher elevations. Residents are advised to secure loose objects and avoid coastal areas due to the dangerous sea conditions. ​

Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns

The series of storms has wreaked havoc on transportation networks. Air travel has been particularly affected, with multiple flights diverted or canceled due to unsafe landing conditions. For instance, several Jet2 flights from the UK to Madeira were forced to divert to the Canary Islands because of dangerous winds.

On the ground, over 50 roads remain closed across Spain, especially in regions like Andalucía, where cleanup efforts from previous storms are still underway. Train services have also experienced delays and cancellations, further complicating travel plans. Authorities are urging the public to stay informed about weather conditions and to exercise caution, particularly in areas prone to flooding or landslides.

Looking Ahead

Meteorologists predict that the adverse weather conditions will persist in the coming days as Storm Martinho continues its course. The cumulative effect of successive storms has saturated the ground, increasing the likelihood of further flooding and landslides. Emergency services remain on high alert, and residents in affected areas are advised to follow official guidance and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

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