Storm Marta Leaves Trail of Death and Devastation Across Portugal

Introduction

Storm Marta, the third major Atlantic storm to strike the Iberian Peninsula in less than two weeks, swept across Portugal and Spain between February 6 and 8, 2026. The severe weather event brought torrential rain, strong winds, and heavy snowfall, leading to at least two fatalities in Portugal, displacing thousands, and causing extensive damage, particularly to the agricultural sector.

Fatalities and Displacement

In Portugal, the storm claimed the life of a 46-year-old emergency services volunteer who drowned on February 8 while attempting a water rescue in a flooded area near Campo Maior, in the central Portalegre District. Another fatality, a firefighter, was reported earlier in Alcácer do Sal during rescue operations. Across the Iberian Peninsula, the cumulative death toll from the recent series of storms, including Marta, Leonardo, and Kristin, reached at least five people.

The storm also led to significant displacement, with more than 11,000 residents forced to evacuate their homes, primarily in Spain's Andalusia region, as rivers like the Guadalquivir reached critical levels. In Portugal, authorities mobilized approximately 26,500 rescue workers nationwide to assist in flood-stricken areas.

Widespread Damage and Economic Impact

Storm Marta inflicted substantial damage to infrastructure and the economy. Portugal's Agriculture Ministry estimated combined agricultural and forestry losses at approximately EUR 750 million (USD 890 million). Spanish farmers reported 'catastrophic damage' to crops, with thousands of hectares of broccoli, carrot, and cauliflower fields submerged under water.

Transportation networks were severely affected, with sections of the Northern and Douro rail lines suspended in Portugal due to inundation and landslides. In Spain, nearly 170 roads were closed, and high-speed rail services between Madrid and the south were largely suspended. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issued orange warnings for strong winds, heavy rain, and coastal hazards across 13 districts. Gusts reached about 120 km/h (75 mph), and up to 115 mm (4.5 inches) of rain fell in 24 hours in some areas. Snow accumulated above 900 meters (2,950 feet), and waves along the Atlantic coast rose between 7 and 13 meters (23–43 feet).

Broader Context and Government Response

Storm Marta followed closely on the heels of Storm Leonardo and Storm Kristin, marking a period of 'exceptionally violent' weather for the Iberian Peninsula. This succession of intense weather systems prompted the Portuguese government to extend the state of calamity until February 15 to support recovery efforts. The severe conditions also impacted civic processes, leading to the postponement of Portugal's presidential vote in three municipalities by a week due to inaccessible polling stations. Preliminary damage assessments for Portugal from this 'storm marathon' have already exceeded €4 billion (USD 4.7 billion).