Spain, Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across eastern and northern Spain as well as most of Portugal, through at least Dec. 11

Event

Heavy snow and large waves are forecast across portions of eastern and northern Spain and most of Portugal through at least Dec. 11. As of early Dec. 8, authorities have issued orange-level warnings (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) for large waves across coastal regions of Asturias, Basque Country, Cantabria, northern Catalonia, eastern Ceuta, and Galicia autonomous communities in Spain and Aveiro, Braga, Coimbra, Leiria, Lisboa, Porto, and Viana do Castelo districts in Portugal. Orange snow warnings are in place over southern Basque Country and northern Castile and Leon autonomous communities in Spain. Additionally, yellow-level warnings for heavy snow, strong winds, and large waves are in place across the remainder of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
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 or a lack of 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 rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
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.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. If strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, authorities may temporarily suspend port and ferry operations or close beach fronts. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
State Meteorological Agency, Spain (Spanish)
Portugal Institute of Meteorology (Portuguese)