Storm Leonardo hits Andalucía: Thousands evacuated and rail services halted

Storm Leonardo continues to batter Andalucía, triggering mass evacuations, trapping residents in flooded areas and bringing much of the region’s rail network to a halt as emergency services respond to one of the most severe weather events of the winter.

The storm has delivered torrential rainfall, strong winds and rapidly rising river levels across southern Spain. Authorities have activated emergency protocols across several provinces, warning that conditions remain dangerous and that further disruption is likely.

Spain’s state meteorological agency, AEMET, has issued red weather alerts for parts of Cádiz, Málaga and Jaén, citing an extreme risk of flooding. In some locations, rainfall has exceeded 200 litres per square metre in 24 hours, overwhelming drainage systems and pushing rivers close to or beyond their banks.

Thousands evacuated as flooding risk escalates

As a precaution, around 3,500 people have been evacuated from areas considered at high risk, including flood plains, riverbanks and low-lying neighbourhoods. Local authorities confirmed that evacuations were carried out throughout the night and into the early hours as water levels rose rapidly in several catchments.

Emergency services have responded to numerous incidents involving people trapped in homes, vehicles and rural properties after roads became impassable. Firefighters, police and civil protection units have been deployed across the region, supported by Spain’s Military Emergency Unit, which has assisted with rescues, evacuations and water pumping operations.

Temporary shelters have been opened to house displaced residents, while municipal authorities continue to monitor river levels and rainfall forecasts.

Rail services suspended across the region

Transport disruption has been widespread, with rail services across Andalucía largely suspended. State rail operator Renfe and infrastructure manager Adif confirmed that high-speed, regional and commuter trains were halted as a safety measure due to flooding, landslides and unstable track conditions.

Several AVE high-speed routes within the region have been cancelled, including services between Málaga and Antequera following a landslip near Álora. Rail traffic on key corridors linking Córdoba, Seville and Málaga has also been affected, leaving only limited long-distance connections operating north of Córdoba.

Passengers have been advised not to travel and to seek updates through official channels, with no confirmed timeline for the full restoration of services.

Roads closed and power outages reported

The storm has also caused extensive disruption to road transport. Dozens of roads across Andalucía have been closed due to flooding, fallen debris and surface damage, particularly in rural and mountainous areas. Some communities remain difficult to access, complicating emergency operations.

Power outages have been reported in several municipalities after wind and water damage affected electricity infrastructure. Utility companies are working alongside emergency services to restore supply, though repairs remain dependent on improving weather conditions.

Schools closed as authorities urge caution

The Andalucian regional government has ordered the closure of schools and educational centres across most affected provinces, suspending in-person teaching as a precaution. Lessons have moved online where possible, while some public buildings, day centres and non-essential administrative services have also been closed.

Officials have urged residents to avoid non-essential travel, stay away from rivers and flooded zones, and follow guidance issued through official emergency alerts and public broadcasters. People living in vulnerable locations have been advised to prepare for further evacuation orders if conditions worsen.

Further disruption expected

Meteorologists warn that Storm Leonardo is expected to continue influencing weather patterns over southern Spain in the coming days. While rainfall intensity may fluctuate, saturated ground conditions mean the risk of additional flooding remains high.

Emergency services remain on full alert as Andalucía braces for continued disruption, with authorities stressing that public cooperation will be essential to minimise risk and ensure safety while the storm persists.