Portugal, Spain: Adverse weather forecast across the Iberian Peninsula through at least March 10

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Portugal and northern Spain through at least March 10. As of early March 8, the respective meteorological institutes have issued the following warnings across both countries:

• Orange snow warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): northern Aragon Autonomous Community in Spain and Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Guarda, Viana do Castelo, and Vila Real districts in Portugal.

• Orange strong wind warnings: northwestern Navarre Autonomous Community in Spain and Viana do Castelo District in Portugal.

• Orange coastal warnings: Across the coast of Galicia Autonomous Community in Spain and the entire coastline of Portugal.

• Yellow rain, snow, strong wind, and coastal warnings: the rest of the affected area.

Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The storm system could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, including rain and snow, and strong winds across the affected area. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in parts of the affected area over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in these areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations.

The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.