Spain, Portugal: Adverse weather forecast across the Canary Islands and far southern mainland Spain and Portugal's Madeira Archipelago through March 16

Event

Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas are forecast across the Canary Islands and portions of far southern mainland Spain and Portugal's Madeira Archipelago through at least March 16. As of early March 14, the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued the following warnings:

• Red heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Sol and Guadalhorce regions in Malaga Municipality; up to 12 cm (5 inches) of rain is forecast to accumulate in 12 hours. Authorities in Malaga have activated the pre-emergency phase of the Flood Risk Emergency Plan (PERI) in advance of the rain due to the risk of flooding.

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Axarquia and Ronda regions in Malaga Municipality.

• Orange strong wind and coastal warnings: most of the Canary Islands

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Antequera region in Malaga Municipality.

• Yellow coastal warnings: coastal areas of southern Andalusia Autonomous Community.

The Portugal Institute of Meteorology has issued red coastal warnings for Porto Santo Island and northern Madeira Island; northwesterly waves of 7-8 meters (23-26 feet) are forecast. Orange strong wind and coastal warnings are in place across central Madeira Island. Yellow strong wind and coastal warnings are in effect for the rest of Madeira Island. 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. 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. Authorities may temporarily suspend port and ferry 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 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
Agencia Estatal de Meteorología, Spain (Spanish)
Portugal Institute of Meteorology (Portuguese)