Irish travellers given urgent warning as popular holiday destinations under red weather alert

Irish holidaymakers have been given an urgent warning as popular travel destinations have been placed under red weather alerts.

Across parts of Spain and Portugal, particularly southern Spain (Andalusia) and coastal areas, meteorological authorities have issued red weather warnings due to the powerful Storm Leonardo which is bringing extremely heavy rains and flooding risks, strong winds, landslide risks in hilly/mountain areas.

READ NEXT: Teenage girl in critical condition after being hit by a car in Offaly

Authorities are urging people to stay indoors where possible and avoid travel in the worst affected areas.

Spain's meteorological agency AEMET has warned of "exceptional risk" with hundreds of millimetres expected to fall in less than a day, driving flash floods and dangerous river rises with evacuations already taken place in some areas.

The extreme weather is expected to continue until the weekend as a spokesperson for AEMET explained, 

"In the coming days, an Atlantic circulation induced by Storm Leonardo is expected to persist, and several frontal systems are forecast to affect the region.

READ NEXT: Orange weather warnings in place as Ireland braces for more flooding from torrential rain

"As a result, locally heavy and exceptionally persistent rainfall is expected in parts of Andalusia, central Spain and Galicia, with significant accumulations in mountainous areas upwind of the westerly and southwesterly flow.

"On the other hand, Leonardo will bring with it an intensification of the wind, with very strong gusts across large areas and widespread rough seas. With all this, landslides and damage to property and infrastructure are likely, as well as damage that the wind may cause from falling branches or trees."

Irish holidaymakers intended to travel to the popular region over the coming days have been urged to be vigilant and to keep up to date with flights and transport which may be affected.

Tourists are also advised to check travel insurance policies relating to weather-related coverage including delays, accommodation costs and missed connections etc. 

READ NEXT: ALERT: Gardaí concerned for wellbeing of missing Dublin man as appeal to find him is launched

Beaches and coastal areas may also be unsafe to visit during the red weather warning as well as restrictions on outdoor activities.

Irish tourists are urged to keep up to date with weather forecasts and heed advice from the authorities.