Over 400 irregular crossings as Storm Leonardo opens gaps in Morocco–Ceuta border fence

Severe storms have fueled a surge in irregular migration from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, according to Spanish media.

Storm Leonardo’s heavy rains, strong winds, and low visibility created conditions that allowed migrants to bypass the border fence.

More than 400 people crossed into Ceuta in January alone, mostly sub-Saharan Africans traveling through northern Morocco. Spanish media described the number as unusually high.

The surge has overwhelmed Ceuta’s temporary reception center. Designed for 512 people, it now houses over 800. Officials report shortages of food and medical resources, as well as cases of hypothermia and injuries.

Videos from the site show migrants celebrating after scaling the fence during stormy nights.

Spanish authorities have responded with heightened security measures. On one night under an orange storm warning, police reinforced monitoring at the Tarajal border crossing after intelligence indicated a possible group attempt. Several lanes were partially closed for hours, slowing traffic and prompting complaints from local drivers. Police said the measure was necessary due to the increased risk of crossings during severe weather.

The storms have also changed migration tactics. Some migrants have attempted to swim across the border from Morocco, prompting intensified maritime patrols and rescue operations under hazardous conditions.

Social media is increasingly used to document crossings, with migrants sharing live footage on platforms such as TikTok.

The migration surge in Ceuta contrasts with trends in other Spanish territories. Arrivals in the Canary Islands fell nearly 80% in January compared with the previous year, while the Balearic Islands saw a 23% increase.

The shift highlights growing pressure on Ceuta, where extreme weather, weak infrastructure, and a vulnerable border fence combine to create a critical bottleneck for migrants coming from Morocco.