Storm “Leonardo” – latest updates on flooding in Spain
February has begun in Spain with the arrival of a new series of Atlantic weather fronts. Storm “Leonardo” is bringing persistent and, in some areas, heavy rainfall to regions that are already saturated. Meteorologists warn that “the soil can no longer absorb more water.”
As a result, the regional government of Andalusia (Junta de Andalucía) has decided to suspend in-person classes this Wednesday in all provinces except Almería, due to weather alerts and what authorities describe as an “exceptional situation.”
The announcement was made by the President of the Andalusian government, Juanma Moreno, following a meeting of the advisory committee of the Emergency Plan, held in Seville. Moreno warned that two so-called “atmospheric rivers” are expected to reach the region later this week.
“Areas that have been flooded at any point over the last 50 years could be affected again in the coming days,” he said.
Flood emergency plan raised to Level 2
One of the first measures adopted has been to raise the Flood Risk Emergency Plan to operational Level 2, allowing Andalusia to mobilise extraordinary resources from other administrations, including local, provincial and national authorities.
The Military Emergency Unit (UME) has also been pre-positioned and is on standby, ready to intervene if conditions worsen.
Schools move online, universities decide independently
Classes at primary and secondary schools will be held online on Wednesday. According to Moreno, schools have the necessary technical resources to ensure continuity of education.
Universities, however, retain full organisational autonomy and will decide individually whether to switch to online teaching or maintain in-person classes.
Authorities urge caution
Given the ongoing severe weather situation, authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from high-risk areas and closely follow official weather and emergency warnings. Several parts of Andalusia remain at increased risk of flooding, overflowing rivers and landslides.
