Spain, Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across Spain and Portugal through at least Jan. 20

Event

Heavy rain, snow, strong winds, and large waves are forecast across Spain and Portugal through at least Jan. 20. As of early Jan. 15, the State Meteorological Agency in Spain has warned of strong winds across the country and snow and rain over the northern half of mainland Spain through at least Jan. 20. Rainfall accumulations of 6-8 cm (2-3 inches) are forecast across most of the country, with the highest amount of rainfall of up to 10 cm (4 inches) possible in the central and coastal areas of Cantabria Autonomous Community. The snow level is forecast to oscillate at elevations of 900-1,200 meters (2,952-3,937 feet) in the northwestern parts of the country and 700-900 meters (2,296-2,952 feet) in the Pyrenees. Authorities have issued the following warnings:

• Red (highest level on a three-tier scale) coastal warnings: Aveiro, Braga, Coimbra, Leiria, Lisboa, Porto, and Viana do Castelo districts in Portugal and Basque Country in Spain.

• Orange coastal warnings: the rest of the coastal areas of Portugal and the northern, western, and southeastern coasts as well as the Balearic Islands in Spain.

• Orange wind warnings: Castelo Branco and Guarda districts in Portugal and northern Galicia and Valencian Community in Spain.

• Yellow rain snow, and wind warnings: most of the rest of 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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. 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 airports in the region. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port and ferry operations or close beach fronts. 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.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
State Meteorological Agency, Spain
Portugal Institute of Meteorology