Portugal Prepares for Storm Leonardo Amid Recovery from Kristin

Portugal anticipates a new storm named Leonardo, following the destruction caused by Storm Kristin. Leonardo is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, threatening floods and further damage. With many households still without power due to Kristin, authorities are on high alert to mitigate potential impacts.

As Portugal commences recovery from the destruction wrought by Storm Kristin, the nation is gearing up for another potential onslaught as Storm Leonardo approaches. Experts from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) forecast that the incoming storm could usher in significant rainfall and potent gusts, primarily affecting mainland Portugal from Tuesday through Saturday.

The Iberian Peninsula has been besieged by numerous storms in recent months, headlined by heavy precipitation and gale-force winds. While the impacts have been acutely felt in southern Spain, considered the wettest winter in four decades, Portugal braces for Leonardo's wrath, as forecasts suggest substantial rain and winds reaching up to 95 km/h in certain areas.

Though the anticipated wind speeds are milder than Storm Kristin's 200 km/h gusts, which resulted in a tragic toll of six lives and extensive property damage, local emergency agencies are preparing for potential floods, particularly in previously affected regions. Electrical outages persist, with around 134,000 households still without power, predominantly concentrated in the Leiria region.