Portugal is getting ready for another round of severe weather as Storm Leonardo heads in. People should expect heavy rain, strong gusty winds, snow in the mountains, and very rough seas. This is the latest in a series of storms hitting the country this winter.
On the mainland, Storm Leonardo will begin to affect the Lower Alentejo and Algarve regions from late afternoon today. Rain will be persistent and at times heavy, accompanied by strong winds, especially along the coast and in mountainous areas.
The most intense period is expected from Wednesday night, 4 February, through Thursday, 5 February. Coastal areas of central Portugal could see wind gusts up to 75 km/h, while higher elevations may experience gusts up to 95 km/h. In the mountains of the north and centre, total rainfall from 3 to 7 February could reach 150–250 mm, with Thursday, 5 February, likely the rainiest day.
Orange and yellow weather warnings have been issued for rain, snow, strong winds, and rough seas.
The Azores and Madeira are also on alert
The Azores will begin to feel the effects on Wednesday, 4 February. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a red warning for very rough seas in the western islands, with waves possibly reaching 10–19 meters, and an orange warning for strong winds, with gusts up to 110 km/h in the western and central islands.
Madeira will also be affected by Storm Leonardo between February 3 and 6, particularly in the western part of the island. Heavy rain, strong winds, and very rough seas are expected. Wind gusts could reach 85–95 km/h in the highlands, and waves on the north coast could reach 7 meters from Thursday. Orange and yellow wind and rough seas warnings are in place.