21 Mar 2022 | 10:28 AM UTC
Spain: Adverse weather forecast across eastern regions through at least March 23
Heavy rainfall and rough seas forecast in parts of eastern Spain through March 23. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across parts of eastern Spain through at least March 23. Heavy rainfall is likely across much of Valencia and parts of southeastern Aragon and southern Catalonia through at least March 23. Strong winds along the east coast are also likely to cause rough seas with waves of around 3 meters (10 feet) height.
As of early March 21, the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): parts of northeastern Valencia Autonomous Community.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of southeastern Aragon, southern Catalonia, and central and northern Valencia autonomous communities.
Yellow coastal warnings: Across the central and northern coastline of Valencia and southern and central coastlines of Catalonia autonomous communities.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port and ferry operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
