18 Oct 2023 | 11:19 AM UTC
Spain: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 20
Severe weather forecast across mainland Spain and Balearic Islands through Oct. 20. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands through at least Oct. 20. A storm system named Aline is expected to bring heavy rainfall and possible thunderstorms as it moves eastward across the country over the coming days. Strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rough seas are also likely in coastal areas during the passing of the storm system. Heavy rainfall may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued yellow rainfall warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) for parts of Galicia Autonomous Community Oct. 18 and yellow strong wind warnings for parts of Asturias, Cantabria, and Galicia. Yellow coastal warnings are in place for much of the northwestern and parts of the southeastern coastlines. Orange and yellow heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings are in place across much of mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands Oct. 19, as well as orange and yellow coastal warnings for many coastal areas Oct. 19-20. Further yellow rainfall warnings have been issued for parts of northern Aragon and Catalonia and yellow strong wind warnings for parts of eastern mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands Oct. 20 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 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.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
The severe weather may contribute to transport disruptions throughout affected regions. 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 across the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port 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 with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
