Spain: Adverse weather forecast across south-central regions through at least June 11

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across parts of south-central mainland Spain through at least June 11. Strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall amounts of up to 4 cm (1.6 inches) per hour are expected across parts of the affected areas. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia, AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area June 10:

• Orange rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across parts of southeastern Castile-La Mancha, northwestern Murcia, and western Valencia autonomous communities.

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Across parts of southeastern Castile-La Mancha and northwestern Murcia autonomous communities.

• Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Across much of the rest of the affected area.

Further yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings are in place across much of the eastern half of the affected area June 11. 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. 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.