One man dead, a woman missing, as Storm Leonardo hits Spain and Portugal

Storm Leonardo has significantly impacted Spain and Portugal, resulting in one confirmed death and one person reported missing. The storm, which is the seventh to strike the Iberian Peninsula this year, has unleashed torrential rainfall, with reports indicating up to 40 centimeters of rain falling within a 24-hour period. This deluge has occurred in a region already saturated by previous winter storms, exacerbating the situation and leading to widespread flooding. In Portugal, one man has been confirmed dead due to the severe weather conditions. Additionally, a girl is reported missing, highlighting the storm's dangerous effects on the population. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes in both Portugal and Spain as a precautionary measure against the rising waters and potential hazards caused by the storm. The heavy rains have resulted in significant disruptions, including the cutting of road and rail lines, which has hampered transportation and emergency response efforts. The situation remains critical as authorities continue to assess the damage and provide assistance to those affected by the storm. The impact of Storm Leonardo underscores the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather systems in the region, which have been increasingly frequent this year.