UK Foreign Office Issues Urgent Red Alert Warning for British Holidaymakers
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued an urgent travel warning to British tourists as Spain and Portugal face severe red weather alerts for extreme conditions during the half term holiday period. This critical advisory comes as thousands of British holidaymakers prepare to travel to these popular destinations.
Severe Weather Conditions Across Iberian Peninsula
Spain's State Meteorological Agency has declared a red alert for severe rainstorms across Malaga Province, with predictions indicating rainfall accumulations could exceed 150 litres per square metre within 12 hours. In some inland regions, forecasts suggest rainfall may surpass 200 litres per square metre over 24 hours, creating dangerous conditions for residents and tourists alike.
The red alert, which indicates extraordinary danger, will remain active in the Ronda region from midnight throughout the entire day. Schools throughout Andalucia will remain closed on Wednesday as a precautionary measure against the extreme weather conditions.
Foreign Office Guidance for British Nationals
The Foreign Office has provided specific guidance for British travellers in the affected regions, stating: "Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong coastal winds are expected across the country until Sunday 8 February, with an increased risk of flash flooding, landslides and travel disruption."
In their detailed advisory, officials warned that airports may take time to reopen following severe weather events, and there could be serious shortages of accommodation, food, water and health facilities. The Foreign Office emphasised that their ability to assist British nationals may be severely limited in these circumstances, as local authorities maintain responsibility for safety and security.
Storm Leonardo's Impact on Travel Infrastructure
Storm Leonardo, the sixth significant low-pressure system to strike in 2026, is set to batter Andalusia once more, with Malaga squarely in its path. According to weather experts at Meteored, very intense rain will begin in the west and far south of Andalucia by early morning, spreading throughout the southern community as the day progresses.
In addition to the red alerts, Spain's meteorological agency has issued orange warnings for rainfall accumulations of between 90 and 100 litres in 12 hours across Malaga, the Costa del Sol, the Guadalhorce region, and Axarquia. The agency has warned that accumulations exceeding 150 litres in 24 hours may be reached in the western half of these zones.
Precautionary Measures and Regional Impact
Portugal and Spain are preparing for additional downpours as Storm Leonardo approaches the Iberian Peninsula this week. Following several weeks of damp and occasionally blustery conditions, meteorologists confirm that further precipitation is forecast, with particularly severe rainfall anticipated throughout Andalusia.
The Foreign Office has advised travellers to:
- Follow advice from local authorities at all times
- Monitor weather updates on the European Meteorological Services website
- Be aware of possible risks relating to damaged buildings or infrastructure
- Understand that events in distant locations can still cause disruption through loss of power, communications or transport services
As the regions brace for continued battering, a series of yellow alerts and amber warnings have been activated alongside the red alerts, creating a multi-tiered warning system for the severe weather conditions expected to persist until mid-February.
