Storm Leonardo set to strike Lisbon, Portugal with intense rain, strong winds, and dangerous seas

Storm Leonardo approaches Portugal

Another storm moves in from the Atlantic. Storm Leonardo follows the damage left by the Kristin depression, with communities still recovering in parts of the Leiria area. The storm advances toward mainland Portugal, with the first impacts expected from late afternoon across Lower Alentejo and the Algarve. Rain spreads inland. The wind begins to rise. Seas grow rough along the coast.

Forecasters report that the storm will bring persistent and at times heavy rainfall. This rain may fall fast. It may fall for hours. In some locations, the storm could deliver the equivalent of three days of rain within twenty four hours. Urban streets may fill quickly. River basins face pressure.

Critical window from Wednesday night to Thursday

The most intense phase is expected from Wednesday night, 4 February, through Thursday, 5 February. Thursday is identified as the critical point. Rainfall intensifies. The rain continues. Wind gusts increase along the coast and across higher ground.

Along central coastal areas, gusts may reach 75 kilometers per hour. In elevated terrain, gusts may climb to 95 kilometers per hour. In the mountains of northern and central Portugal, total rainfall from 3 to 7 February may reach 150 to 250 millimeters, with Thursday likely the wettest day of the period.

Snow is expected in the mountains. Seas turn rough. Waves strike the shore in repeated lines. The wind carries spray inland. The storm moves quickly, yet the rain may linger.

Flood risk and transport disruption

The rainfall rate is expected to rise well above average. This places pressure on drainage systems and river basins. Fast runoff increases the risk of rapid flooding in urban areas. Low lying streets may fill first. Water gathers around underpasses and small streams.

Strong winds accompany the rain. Gusts affect coastal roads and mountain routes. Sea turbulence increases. Traffic may slow. Access to exposed areas becomes difficult. Authorities warn that power disruptions are possible in the hardest hit locations.

Weather warnings across mainland Portugal

Weather services have issued orange and yellow warnings for rain, snow, strong winds, and rough seas. The warnings cover multiple regions as the storm spreads north and inland.

The storm is expected to pass quickly in terms of its core. Atmospheric instability remains high across the country even after the center of the storm weakens. Rain continues into the days that follow. The ground remains saturated. Rivers respond slowly.

Azores and Madeira on alert

The storm extends beyond the mainland.

In the Azores, impacts begin on Wednesday, 4 February. A red warning for very rough seas is in place for the western islands, with waves possibly reaching 10 to 19 meters. An orange warning for strong winds covers the western and central islands, with gusts up to 110 kilometers per hour. The ocean surface rises and falls in steep walls of water.

Madeira faces impacts from 3 to 6 February, with the western part of the island most exposed. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected. In the highlands, gusts may reach 85 to 95 kilometers per hour. Along the north coast, waves may reach 7 meters from Thursday onward. Orange and yellow warnings remain active for wind and rough seas.

Preparing for the storm and possible isolation

Authorities urge residents to prepare for potential disruption. The National Republican Guard has advised households to assemble a seventy two hour emergency kit. The guidance focuses on basic needs during power outages or temporary isolation.

Recommended items include:

• Water and non perishable food for three days
• Flashlight, radio, batteries, power bank
• Garbage bags
• Personal hygiene products
• Whistle, pocket knife, cash, map
• First aid kit and essential medications
• Clothing, blanket, sturdy shoes
• Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag

Residents are advised to follow official communications from competent authorities. Roads near rivers and low lying urban areas may become difficult to cross. The rain may ease. The wind may weaken. The water may take longer to drain.