Portugal, Spain: Adverse weather forecast to continue across much of mainland Portugal and parts of southern Spain through at least Oct. 12 /update 1

Adverse weather is forecast to continue across much of mainland Portugal and parts of southern Spain through at least Oct. 12. Severe weather associated with the remnants of Hurricane Kirk that has been affecting much of both countries in recent days has largely passed as of Oct. 10; however, further showers and storms are expected across the affected area over the coming days; strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms.

The respective meteorological institutes have issued the following warnings across both countries Oct. 11-12:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Faro District in Portugal and parts of west-central Andalucia Autonomous Community in Spain.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across the rest of mainland Portugal, parts of central, northern, and western Andalucia, and far southwestern Castile-La Mancha autonomous communities in Spain.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Beja and Faro districts in Portugal and parts of western and west-central Andalucia Autonomous Community in Spain.

Officials will likely 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 located 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 possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.

The severe weather may cause transport disruptions throughout affected regions. Floodwaters and debris flows could 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 may temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather may trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected regions. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in storm-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.