Civil Defense warns of worsening weather conditions in the next 48 hours

The National Emergency Management and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) on Tuesday warned the public of worsening weather conditions in the next 48 hours, including wind and heavy rain, rough seas and snowfall.

Based on forecasts from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA), ANEPC warns of periods of rain or showers, sometimes heavy, on Wednesday north of Cabo Mondego in the morning and on the northern coast, from late afternoon, as well as persistent rainfall in the mountainous areas of Minho and Douro Litoral, which could exceed 40 millimeters (mm) in six hours.

Strong winds are forecast for the same day, with gusts of up to 70 km/h on the northern coast, which could reach 90 km/h in the north and center later in the day due to rough seas on the coast. west coast, north of Cape Raso, with waves of four to five meters.

On Thursday, ANEPC is warning of a similar scenario with periods of rain, sometimes heavy, north of the Montejunto Estrela mountain range until the early morning, followed by showers in the afternoon, and the possibility of snow falling above 12:00. /1400 meters altitude.

Forecasts for Thursday also indicate strong winds in the northern and central highlands with gusts of up to 100 km/h and rough seas south of Cape Raso, with waves measuring five to seven meters and reaching heights of 14 metres.

Regarding the hydrological situation in the north of the country, ANEPC warns, based on forecasts from the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), for the Miño River basin, where flows remain above 800 cubic meters per second, “which may increase slightly if there are discharges at the dam Frieira, while the Lima River remains on yellow alert due to the possibility of increased discharges from the Alto Lindoso-Tuvedo system.”

The Cavado River Basin remains on yellow alert due to the possibility of increased releases from the Canisada Dam.

Given all forecasts, especially heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough seas, ANEPC warns of flooding in urban areas caused by accumulation of rainwater, clogged drainage systems or overflowing banks, as well as flooding aggravated by water spills. the beds of some watercourses, rivers and streams.

It also warns of slope instability leading to landslides and landslides caused by water infiltration, a phenomenon that could be exacerbated by the removal of vegetation cover from last summer’s rural fires or artificial tillage.

Also, in the next 48 hours, you should take into account the slipperiness of the road surface due to the possible formation of groundwater or the accumulation of ice and/or snow, possible accidents on the coast, due to strong seas and skidding on the roads. loose objects or detachment of mobile or poorly secured structures due to strong winds, which can cause accidents with moving vehicles or passers-by on public roads.

ANEPC leaves the public with the usual advice to ensure that storm drainage systems are unblocked and that inert materials and other items that may be carried over or obstruct the free flow of water are removed; Adequate securing of loose structures, such as scaffolding, signs and other suspended structures, and extreme caution when traveling or staying near wooded areas due to falling branches and trees.

It also recommends taking special care when traveling near coastlines and coastal areas that are historically more vulnerable to landfall, not engaging in sea-related activities such as sport fishing, water sports and seaside walks, and avoiding parking of vehicles. funds are too close to each other. embankment.

Drivers are advised to drive cautiously by reducing speed and paying particular attention to possible snow accumulation and/or water tables on roads, and to avoid driving through flooded areas to prevent people or vehicles from being pulled into potholes in the road. floor or open drains.