12 Dec 2022 | 08:17 AM UTC
Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Dec. 14
Heavy rainfall is forecast across much of Portugal through at least Dec. 14. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across much of Portugal through at least Dec. 14. Thunderstorm activity, strong winds, and rough seas may accompany downpours. As of early Dec. 12, the Portuguese Institute of Meteorology (IPMA) has issued orange rainfall warnings (the middle level on a four-tier scale) across Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Evora, Setubal, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real, and Viseu districts. Yellow heavy rain, large waves, and strong wind warnings are in place over the rest of the country. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall Dec. 7-9 caused widespread transport disruptions in the capital, with Oeiras, Sintra, Cascais, Loures, and Odivelas the worst affected municipalities. Authorities reported one fatality after floodwaters trapped a person in their basement in the Alges area of the Lisbon metropolitan area. Numerous roads in the capital and surrounding areas were inundated by floodwaters, causing extensive travel disruptions. Rail travel was disrupted due to flooded tracks and access issues to stations. At least two flights were diverted at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon. Additional rainfall is likely to hamper recovery efforts.
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 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.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. 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 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.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, 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.
