Several thousand evacuated in southern Spain amid storm Leonardo

Home

China

World

Politics

Business

Sci-Tech

Health

Opinions

Video

Live

Radio

World Asia-Pacific Middle East Europe Americas Africa

By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.

I agree

Torrential rains brought by storm Leonardo have forced the evacuation of an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 people across southern Spain, including the entire population of the small hillside town of Grazalema in Cadiz Province, local authorities said on Thursday.

Areas flooded in the nearby town of Arcos de la Frontera, Cadiz, Spain, February 5, 2026. /VCG

The evacuation order was issued after days of exceptionally heavy rainfall raised the risk of flooding, landslides and structural damage. Juanma Moreno, president of the Andalusia region, said the move was taken as a precaution and urged residents to remain calm as evacuations proceed in an orderly manner.

A flooded area at Las Pachecas settlement in Jerez, Spain, February 5, 2026. /VCG

Storm Leonardo has caused rivers to overflow across parts of Andalusia and Extremadura, leading to school closures, widespread transport disruption and the suspension of most rail services. Emergency teams are also searching for a woman swept away by floodwaters in the province of Malaga.

Severe weather has also affected neighboring Portugal, where authorities confirmed at least one flood-related death.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency

Open in CGTN APP for better experience

Search Trends