Spain and Portugal hit by storms, thousands evacuated

Severe storms have once again hit Spain and Portugal, forcing authorities to declare a high alert. Winds gusting at over 105 km/h knocked down trees, disrupted road and rail transport, and led to the temporary closure of schools in Catalonia.

One person is in critical condition after being hit by a falling tree, while others suffered serious injuries in Barcelona after a roof collapsed and a streetlight fell.

A red alert is in effect in northern Spain due to Storm Nils, the eighth since the beginning of the year. Meteorologists have also warned of nine-meter waves. More than 100 flights have been canceled at El Prat Airport, although the situation is gradually improving.

In Portugal, intense rains brought by an atmospheric river have caused authorities to evacuate approximately 3,000 people, and part of the A1 motorway collapsed after a dam burst. The Aguieira reservoir is 99 percent full, which, according to available data, increases the risk of flooding.

(reuters, pir)