Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across central and southern mainland regions and Madeira through at least Nov. 17

Adverse weather is forecast across parts of central and southern mainland Portugal and Madeira through at least Nov. 17. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a special information bulletin warning of worsening conditions over the coming days due to a depression centered north of Madeira. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across the affected area through early Nov. 17; 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 Nov. 15, the IPMA has issued the following warnings across the country:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Beja and Faro districts Nov. 15 and much of Maderia with the exception of Porto Santo Nov. 15-16.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Castelo Branco, Evora, and Protalegre districts Nov. 15, Lisbon and Setubal districts and Porto Santo in Madeira Nov. 15-16, and Beja and Faro districts Nov. 16.

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.