Portugal Extends State of Emergency as Storm Leonardo Adds to Devastation Across the Country
Portugal has extended a nationwide state of emergency as the country reels from the catastrophic impact of Storm Leonardo, which unleashed severe flooding, landslides, and widespread destruction just days after the devastating Storm Kristin. Prime Minister Luis Montenegro described the situation as a “devastating crisis,” with emergency powers prolonged to coordinate rescue operations and protect critical infrastructure.
Widespread Flooding and Rescue Operations
Storm Leonardo brought torrential rains that caused major rivers—including the Tagus, Sado, and Lis—to overflow, submerging towns and cutting off transportation routes.
Severe Inundation: In Alcácer do Sal, floodwaters reached two meters, submerging the city center and forcing emergency boat evacuations.
Massive Emergency Response: The National Civil Protection Authority, supported by 3,000 soldiers, has been overwhelmed with calls, performing continuous rescues and delivering essential supplies.
Fatalities and Damage: At least one man was killed after his car was swept away by floodwaters. Hundreds of homes have been flooded, with thousands of emergency calls logged.
Officials warn the Tagus River basin is experiencing its worst flood threat in nearly 30 years.
Government Response: Extended Emergency Powers
Confronted with the escalating disaster, the Portuguese government has extended the state of emergency, granting authorities enhanced powers to:
Mobilize resources and personnel for prolonged rescue and recovery efforts.
Implement preventive measures in high-risk regions.
Redirect public project workers to flood defense and reconstruction.
Prime Minister Montenegro emphasized the need for public compliance with safety directives, stating the recovery would be a “long and demanding process.”
Context: A Brutal Season of Storms
Leonardo is the second major storm to batter Portugal in quick succession. Just a week earlier, Storm Kristin—with wind gusts over 200 km/h—killed at least six people, caused massive power outages, and inflicted severe structural damage, prompting a multi-billion euro recovery plan. Leonardo’s flooding has compounded these losses, stretching emergency services and national resources to their limits.
Ongoing Risks and Displacement
With grounds saturated and rivers still high, the crisis is far from over:
Continued Danger: Many residents cannot return home, roads are destroyed, and landslide risks remain high.
Further Threats: Weather forecasts predict more rainfall, raising concerns of renewed flooding in already vulnerable areas.
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The Road to Recovery
As Portugal remains on high alert, the extended state of emergency provides a crucial window to stabilize the situation. The consecutive storms represent one of the most challenging periods of extreme weather in recent Portuguese history, underscoring the increasing severity of climate-driven disasters in Europe. The focus now is on immediate lifesaving efforts, followed by a monumental task of rebuilding and strengthening national resilience.
