Spain, Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across northwestern Spain as well as western and southern Portugal through at least March 13

Event

Heavy rain, strong winds, and large waves forecast across northwestern Spain and western and southern Portugal through at least March 13. As of early March 11, authorities have issued orange (middle level on a three-tier scale) coastal warnings across Galicia Autonomous Community in Spain and Aveiro, Braga, Coimbra, Leira, Lisboa, Porto, and Viana do Castelo districts in Portugal; 5-7 meters (16-23 feet) waves are forecast. Additionally, yellow coastal, heavy rain, and strong wind warnings 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 airports in the region, including Humberto Delgado (LIS), Faro (FAO), and Francisco Sa Carneiro (OPO) airports in Portugal and Santiago–Rosalia de Castro Airport (SCQ) in Spain. 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)