12 Dec 2022 | 02:32 PM UTC
Spain: Adverse weather forecast across multiple regions through at least Dec. 15
Severe weather forecast across parts of much of mainland Spain through at least Dec. 15. Possible flooding and disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across much of mainland Spain through at least Dec. 15. A storm system named Efrain by the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) will bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas to much of the country over the coming days. The heaviest rainfall is expected in western regions, including parts of central Extremadura and western Castile La Mancha autonomous communities. Rainfall totals of around 8 cm (3 inches) are expected in these areas, Dec. 13. Winds of up to 90 kph (56 mph) are forecast in some southern coastal areas, as well as waves of up to 4 meters (13 feet) in various coastal waters.
As of Dec. 12, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings through Dec. 14:
Orange heavy rainfall warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of central Extremadura and western Castile La Mancha autonomous communities.
Orange strong wind warnings: Parts of southeastern Andalucia Autonomous Community.
Orange rough sea warnings: Parts of the northwest and southeast coasts.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of Andalucia, far southern Castille and Leon, western and central Castile La Mancha, southern Community of Madrid, Extremadura, and Galicia autonomous communities.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of Andalucia, southern and western Aragon, Castile and Leon, Castile La Mancha, central and southern Extremadura, northern Galicia, southern La Rioja, southeastern Murcia, northwestern Navarre, and western Valencia autonomous communities, as well as northern Mallorca in the Balearic Islands.
Yellow rough sea warnings: Across much of the northwestern, northern, and southern coastlines, as well as the coast of the Balearic Islands.
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 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 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. 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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
