Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 18

Adverse weather is forecast across much of mainland Portugal and Madeira through at least Oct. 18. Periods of heavy rainfall with isolated thunderstorms are expected over the coming days; 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. 14, the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued the following warnings across the country:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Beja, Castelo Branco, Evora, Faro, Leiria, Lisbon, Portalegre, Santarem, and Setubal districts Oct. 15.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Much of Madeira and Beja, Castelo Branco, Evora, Faro, Portalegre, and Santarem districts Oct. 14; Aveiro, Beja, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Leiria, Lisbon, Portalegre, Santarem, Setubal, and Viseu Oct. 15; and Braganca, Castelo Branco, Guarda, and Vila Real districts Oct. 15-early Oct. 16.

Officials could update and 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.