Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across the Azores through at least early April 17

Heavy rainfall is forecast across the Azores archipelago through at least early April 17. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a special information statement warning of a depression south of the archipelago which will bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to the region. The IPMA has issued orange rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for the central and eastern Azores April 16 and yellow rainfall warnings for the western Azores. Further yellow rainfall warnings are in place for the central and eastern Azores early April 17. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

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 airports.

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.