The entire population of Grazalema has been ordered to evacuate following days of extreme rain that shows no sign of stopping.
The region of Cadiz has become the epicentre of Storm Leonardo after being completely overwhelmed by floodwater – with conditions set to worsen once again over the weekend.
The evacuation has been described by the regional government as preventive, phased and orderly, and is being carried out in response to the serious risk of landslides caused by the enormous volume of accumulated water.
Authorities warn that the ground and underlying aquifer are fully saturated, increasing the likelihood of soil instability and structural collapses, including potential damage to homes.
Mandatory evacuation, no residents allowed to remain
The evacuation is mandatory, and no residents are being allowed to stay in the village. The operation is being carried out house by house by the Guardia Civil, supported by the Military Emergency Unit (UME).
Evacuated residents are being transferred to Ronda, where the local council has made a sports hall available to accommodate those displaced until it is safe for them to return home.
Evacuation by zones and daylight operation
According to the Junta, the evacuation began at 3.30pm and is being carried out by sectors, prioritising areas considered most at risk due to water accumulation.
Further evacuations in Cadiz province
In addition to Grazalema, evacuations are also underway in parts of Ubrique, while authorities confirmed that from 5.00pm the Doña Blanca settlement in El Puerto de Santa Maria is also being evacuated as a precaution.
Storm Leonardo continues to cause widespread disruption across Andalucia, with emergency services remaining on high alert as rainfall persists and ground conditions remain highly unstable.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
