Spain: Severe weather forecast across eastern regions through at least Sept. 18

Heavy rainfall is forecast across eastern parts of mainland Spain through at least Sept. 18. Hourly rainfall totals of up to 4 cm (1.6 inches) and totals of over 7 cm (1.8 inches) in three of four hours are possible in coastal parts of the affected region over the coming days. The heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

As of Sept. 17, the State Agency of Meteorology (Agencia Estatal de Meteorlogia, AEMET) has issued orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) over parts of southwestern Catalonia and northeastern Valencia autonomous communities Sept. 17-18. Yellow heavy rainfall warnings are in place over parts of north-central and southwestern Catalonia and north-central Valencia autonomous communities Sept. 17 and southern Aragon, northeastern and southeastern Castile-La Mancha, northern and southwestern Catalonia, and central and northern Valencia autonomous communities Sept. 18. 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 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 rain 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 likely 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 may temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flight delays and cancellations at airports are possible.

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.