1. SITUATION

According to the information provided by the IPMA, the weather is expected to worsen in the coming days, with heavy precipitation, thunderstorms, higher wind with the possibility of extreme occurrences, aggravated by high seas along the coast. The following is forecast:

• Strong and persistent precipitation in the whole territory from dawn Friday 9^th until Sunday (March 11), especially in Minho and Douro Litoral regions, which may also include the districts of Vila Real, Viseu and Aveiro. Accumulated rainfall may reach 40-60 mm / 12 hours, with the most critical period occurring between 3:00 pm and 9:00 pm on 9^th March.
• Moderate to strong wind (up to 55 km / h) from the south quadrant, with gusts up to 85 km / h on the coast, and up to 110 km / h in the highlands. Possibility of extreme winds, more likely to occur in the South of the country.
• South-west high seas along the coast, with wave height reaching 4-5 meters, starting at 6pm tomorrow 9th. On Sunday, the sea state is expected to increase with waves exceeding 7 meters on the west coast and maximum peaks of up to 14 meters.

Follow the weather forecasts on www.ipma.pt

 

2. EXPECTED EFFECTS

In view of the situation described above, the following effects may occur:

• Slippery road surface and possible formation of water and ice patches;
• Possibility of rapid flooding in urban areas, due to the accumulation of rainwater or insufficient drainage systems;
• Possibility of flooding by transhipment of water lines in the most vulnerable areas;
• Floods of underground urban structures with drainage deficiencies;
• Damage to mounted or suspended structures;
• Drainage problems in urban systems, especially those occurring during periods of high tide, and may cause flooding in the most vulnerable places;
• Possibility of falling branches or trees due to stronger wind;
• Possible coastal shoreline accidents;
• Geomorphological phenomena caused by instability of slopes associated with soil saturation, due to loss of consistency.

 

3. PREVENTIVE MEASURES

 

The ANPC advises people to take appropriate measures to mitigate the effect of bad weather on daily life, especially in the historically most vulnerable areas of the territory.

• Ensure clearing of rainwater drainage systems and removal of aggregates and other objects that may be dragged or obstruct the free flow of water;
• Adopt a defensive driving, reducing the speed and taking special care with the possible accumulation of snow and the formation of water patches on roads;
• Do not cross flooded areas in order to avoid people or vehicles falling into holes in the pavement or open sewers;
• Ensure adequate attachment of loose structures, namely scaffolding, placards and other suspended structures;
• Take special care in passing by or staying near wooded areas, being aware of the possibility of falling branches and trees, due to a stronger wind;
• Take special care in the circulation along the coastline and riverside areas historically more vulnerable to coastal gullies, avoiding if possible passing through or staying in these places;
• Do not engage in sea-related activities, such as sport fishing, water sports and seafront walks, and avoid parking vehicles very close to the seafront;
• Be alert to weather information and Civil Protection and Security Forces indications.