16 Sep 2022 | 08:13 AM UTC
Spain: Adverse weather forecast across the Balearic Islands, northeastern, and eastern regions through at least Sept. 17
Severe weather forecast across parts of eastern Spain through at least Sept. 17. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across the Balearic Islands and parts of northeastern and eastern mainland Spain through at least Sept. 17. The heaviest rainfall is expected in parts of eastern Catalonia Autonomous Community and across the Balearic Islands, where rainfall totals of around 4-5 cm (1.6-2 inches) are possible Sept. 16. Thunderstorms are forecast to break out across parts of southern Aragon, eastern Catalonia, and all except far northern and far southern Valencia autonomous communities, as well as in the Balearic Islands. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail storms.
As of Sept. 15, the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange heavy rainfall warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of eastern Catalonia Autonomous Community and across the Balearic Islands.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of northwestern Catalonia and much of Valencia autonomous communities.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the affected area.
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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding 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. 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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
