Iberian Peninsula Gears Up for Storm Leo's Fury

Storm Leo threatens the Iberian Peninsula as Spanish and Portuguese authorities prepare for its impact. Classes are suspended, and travel warnings issued. Last month's rains saturate the ground, increasing the risk of flooding. Emergency personnel stand ready, with alerts in high-risk areas across southern Spain and Portugal.

Spanish and Portuguese authorities are gearing up for Storm Leo, as they take precautionary measures in response to the impending storm. Many areas are on high alert, with classes suspended and travel warnings in place as a precaution, just a week after deadly Storm Kristin caused significant damage in the region.

The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET has predicted that regions like the southern Sierra Grazalema could experience a year's worth of rainfall in a short span due to Storm Leo. The situation is dire, as the ground remains heavily saturated, increasing the likelihood of flooding.

Officials in Spain's Andalusia region have urged residents to curtail non-essential travel, warning of possible escalation to red-alert status. Emergency and military units are prepped for swift action, including potential evacuations. Meanwhile, Portugal's Civil Protection Service has also raised its alert level, deploying thousands of personnel as weather conditions worsen.

(With inputs from agencies.)