Lorraine Williamson
Grazalema flooding after Leonardo has become one of the clearest symbols of this week’s extreme weather in Spain, after rainfall totals surged to levels rarely seen even in one of the wettest corners of mainland Europe.
As the storm continues to move across southern Spain, attention is now turning to the hardest-hit areas. While conditions vary across the country, flooding in Grazalema has become a focal point for emergency crews and meteorologists monitoring the situation.
Extreme rainfall in a region used to rain
Grazalema sits in the Sierra de Cádiz and is known for receiving some of the highest annual rainfall totals in mainland Spain. Even by its standards, however, this week’s rainfall has been exceptional.
AEMET issued red weather warnings for the area, signalling an extraordinary risk due to persistent and intense rain. Rivers and streams have surged, roads have flooded, and access routes have been affected as water levels rose rapidly on already saturated ground.
Meteorologists say rainfall totals in parts of the Sierra de Cádiz have been among the highest recorded during the current storm, with conditions worsening quickly during the peak of the system.
Emergency response and disruption
Emergency services across the province have been on high alert, with rescue teams and civil-protection units monitoring river levels and responding to incidents.
In the wider Andalucía region, the storm has prompted evacuations in flood-risk areas, school closures in several municipalities, and travel disruption due to flooded roads and landslides.
Although some areas have begun to see conditions stabilise, authorities warn that the risk remains high in mountainous zones like Grazalema, where runoff continues to feed rivers and reservoirs.
Why Grazalema is so vulnerable
The Sierra de Grazalema is one of the rainiest places in Spain because moist Atlantic air rises over the mountains, producing heavy rainfall. When prolonged storms hit, the landscape can quickly become overwhelmed.
With soil already saturated from previous rain, even a short burst of heavy precipitation can trigger rapid flooding and dangerous river conditions.
Local officials say this week’s event stands out even in a region accustomed to extreme weather, with comparisons being drawn to floods not seen for decades.
Situation still evolving
Authorities continue to urge caution in affected areas as emergency teams assess damage and monitor water levels. While rainfall is expected to ease gradually, the danger of flooding and landslides remains in some locations.
Flooding in Grazalema is now one of the most closely watched developments as the country begins to assess the full impact of Storm Leonardo.
Sources: AEMET, Europa Press, Diario de Cadiz