A new storm is nearing the Iberian Peninsula, bringing increased flood risks to Spain and Portugal following the devastation left by storm 'Leonardo', which recently resulted in two fatalities in the region. In preparation for storm 'Marta', over 26,500 rescuers have been deployed across Portugal, with authorities issuing warnings about potential floods and landslides. The storm is expected to bring severe weather conditions, prompting the government to take preemptive measures.

In light of the expected impact of storm 'Marta', three municipalities in Portugal have postponed voting for the second round of presidential elections originally scheduled for Sunday. This decision underscores the severity of the weather situation and the prioritization of public safety over electoral schedules. The Portuguese Civil Protection Agency has raised alarms regarding the weather forecast, indicating that wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour along the coast.

The recent storm 'Leonardo' had already wreaked havoc earlier this week, causing heavy rainfall that led to road and rail blockages and left thousands of households without power. The Prime Minister of Portugal, Luís Montenegro, visited flood-affected areas and indicated that preliminary damage assessments suggest significant economic impacts. The situation remains critical as both countries brace for further inclement weather, emphasizing the need for efficient disaster response and infrastructure resilience in the face of increasing climate challenges.