Spain: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central parts of the country through at least June 27

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of northern and central Spain through at least June 27. Strong winds, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours producing 1.5-2.5 cm (0.6-1 inches) of rainfall per hour are expected in the affected areas and may trigger flooding in low-lying areas. Strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of June 26, the State Meteorological Agency (Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia, AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across inland areas of Asturias and Cantabria and parts of northern Castile and Leon, eastern Galicia, and southern La Rioja autonomous communities.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across inland areas of Asturias, Basque Country, and Cantabria and parts of western Aragon, northern Castile and Leon, eastern Galicia, and southern Navarre autonomous communities.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the affected area not under orange thunderstorm warnings.

Further yellow rainfall and thunderstorm warnings are in place for some northwestern regions June 27. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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. Where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

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. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions are possible in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.