Iberian Peninsula on High Alert as Flood Risks Escalate

Rivers and reservoirs in Spain and Portugal approached overflowing due to severe weather, following Storm Kristin. Authorities have evacuated residents and heightened alerts, with both nations deploying emergency services to handle flooding threats. Potential landslides and damage add to the concerns in affected areas.

Spain and Portugal are bracing for severe flooding as heavy rains continue to impact the Iberian Peninsula. Just a week after Storm Kristin wreaked havoc, the region faces further threats with rivers and reservoirs nearing their limits.

In Andalusia, southern Spain, 14 rivers and 10 dams are at 'extreme' risk of overflowing. The severe conditions, exacerbated by saturated ground, have led to infrastructure strain, particularly in the municipality of Grazalema, where a compromised sewage system is causing water to surge from homes.

To mitigate impacts, authorities have evacuated 3,500 residents and cancelled classes. AEMET warns of sustained heavy rains through Saturday, increasing the risk of landslides. Meanwhile, Portugal has raised its alert level, with military deployments underway to aid in rescue and relief operations as water levels rise.

(With inputs from agencies.)