09 May 2021 | 04:06 PM UTC
France, Spain: Heavy thunderstorms forecast in several regions through at least May 11
Heavy thunderstorms and strong winds forecast across southwestern France and northern Spain through at least May 11. Disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities in France have issued orange warnings - the third-highest level on a four-tiered scale - for the Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, and Auvergne-Rhones-Alpes regions in anticipation of severe thunderstorms from May 9 through least 12:00 May 11. Spain has issued similar warnings for Huesca, Valencia, and Zaragoza provinces until the end of May 9. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. In addition to the heavy rain, strong wind gusts could prompt sporadic power outages throughout the affected area.
Transport
The weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in affected areas over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes, which could be blocked by debris or floodwaters. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in affected areas. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected areas through at least May 12. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
