17 Oct 2023 | 08:30 AM UTC
Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across mainland regions through at least Oct. 19
Severe weather forecast across mainland Portugal through at least Oct. 19. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across mainland Portugal through at least Oct. 19. Thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas may accompany heavy rainfall.
The Portuguese Institute of Meteorology (IPMA) has issued the following weather warnings across Portugal Oct. 17:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Aveiro, Braga, Faro, Porto, Viana do Castelo, and Vila Real districts.
Orange strong wind warnings: Aveiro, Braga, Coimbra, Leiria, Lisbon. Porto, and Viana do Castelo districts.
Orange rough sea warnings: Coastal areas of Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Coimbra, Faro, Leiria, Lisbon, Porto, Setubal, and Viana do Castelo districts.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across the rest of mainland Portugal.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Barganca, Castelo Branco, Guarda, Santarem, Setubal, Vila Real, and Viseu districts.
Further yellow heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings have been issued across mainland Portugal late Oct. 18-19, as well as yellow rough sea warnings for coastal areas Oct. 19. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.
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.
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. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts in coastal regions if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.
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.
