Rain, snow and strong winds: Civil Defense warns of worsening weather conditions

The National Emergency Management and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) warned on Tuesday of worsening weather conditions in the next 48 hours: rain, strong winds, rough seas and snowfall, especially in the center and north of the country.

Based on forecasts from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere, ANEPC warns of precipitation on Wednesday, especially in the northern and central coastal areas, starting in the late afternoon, as well as a gradual increase in winds, sometimes strong along the coastal strip and in mountainous areas.

On Thursday, rain will fall across the continental territory, but with particular intensity in the north and center, as well as in mountainous areas, with snowfall expected at the highest points of the Serra da Estrela, gradually decreasing to an altitude of 800/1000 m above sea level . end of the day.

Later in the day (Thursday) strong winds are expected to prevail from the western quadrant, gradually increasing and at times strong in the coastal and highland areas, with gusts of up to 70 kilometers per hour, and winds gradually increasing. sea ​​excitement, worse early morning.

Based on these forecasts, Civil Protection warns of slippery roads due to the possibility of ice, snow accumulation and groundwater levels, snowfall in areas and at heights where it is not usually visible, as well as difficulties in drainage systems in urban areas, especially observed in periods of high tide that can cause flooding in historically most vulnerable areas.

Possible impacts on the coastline due to rough seas, flooding in urban areas caused by the accumulation of rainwater due to clogged drainage systems or bank closures, the possibility of falling branches or trees, and impacts on infrastructure associated with communications and energy networks damage to hanging or suspended structures.

Civil Defense reminds that “the potential impact of these consequences can be minimized, particularly by adopting appropriate behavior,” providing some guidance, especially for historically most vulnerable areas.

It recommends, among other things, paying increased attention to the most vulnerable groups of the population (infants, chronically ill people, older or more isolated people, outdoor workers and the homeless), ensuring adequate support for loose structures , namely scaffolding, billboards and other suspended structures, and be careful when moving and staying near forested areas, paying attention to the possibility of falling branches and trees due to strong winds.

Special care should also be taken when traveling near coastlines and coastal areas that have historically been more vulnerable to landfall, avoiding travel and stay in these areas, and not engaging in sea-related activities such as sport fishing, water sports and seaside walks. , also avoid parking vehicles very close to the embankment, driving carefully and avoiding driving on roads prone to snow accumulation.