Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Nov. 3

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Portugal through at least Nov. 3. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a special bulletin warning of unstable weather due to a depression across mainland Portugal over the coming days, with adverse weather also likely in the Azores. At times heavy showers and thunderstorms are forecast Nov. 1, with the worst of the severe weather likely in central and southern regions. Conditions are expected to gradually improve Nov. 2, although showers may persist in southern regions through Nov. 3. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of Oct. 31, the IPMA has issued the following warnings across the country:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Faro District Oct. 31-Nov. 1.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Beja, Castelo Branco, Evora, Faro, and Protalegre districts and the central Azores Oct. 31-Nov. 1, Guarda and Vsieu districts and the western Azores Oct. 31, and Setubal District and the eastern Azores Nov. 1.

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. 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.