Portugal: Adverse winter weather forecast over northern and north-central regions through at least Feb. 25

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of northern and north-central Portugal through at least Feb. 25. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a special statement warning that a cold front will initially bring rainfall to the region before drawing in cold air, which will lead to a transition in the precipitation to snowfall from late Feb. 22 over elevated parts of the affected area. Heavy snowfall accumulations are possible and a significant drop in temperature is expected across the region. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in the affected area due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Strong winds in coastal areas will generate very rough seas, with wave heights between 7-14 meters (23-46 feet) possible in places.

As of Feb. 22, the IPMA has issued yellow snowfall warnings across the affected area from late Feb. 22 and orange snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across Braga, Castelo Branco, Guarda, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real, and Viseu districts Feb. 23-24. Red rough sea warnings are in place for affected coastal areas Feb. 23-24, with orange warnings on either side of the red warning period from late Feb. 22 through Feb. 25. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout affected areas.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in elevated parts of the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in regions where heavy snow and/or cold temperatures are forecast.