08 Dec 2022 | 10:20 AM UTC
Portugal: Disruptions due to severe weather ongoing in Lisbon and surrounding areas as of Dec. 8 /update 1
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in parts of Portugal as of Dec. 8. Further adverse weather forecast nationwide through Dec. 9.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing in Lisbon and surrounding areas as of Dec. 8. Heavy rainfall since late Dec. 7 has caused widespread transport disruptions in the capital, with Oeiras, Sintra, Cascais, Loures, and Odivelas the worst affected municipalities. Authorities have reported one fatality after floodwaters trapped a person in their basement in the Alges area of the Lisbon metropolitan area. Numerous roads in the capital and surrounding areas have been inundated by floodwaters, causing extensive travel disruptions. Rail disruptions are also ongoing due to flooded tracks and access issues to stations. At least two flights have been diverted at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon. The severe weather has caused damage to a number of buildings in Lisbon, including a hospital. Civil protection officials have urged people to remain indoors due to the threat of flooding and strong winds.
Further adverse weather is forecast across much of Portugal through at least Dec. 9. As of Dec. 8, the Portuguese Institute of Meteorology (IPMA) has issued yellow rainfall warnings (the lowest level on a four-tier scale) across mainland Portugal through Dec. 9. Yellow strong wind warnings have also been issued across Madeira Dec. 8 and yellow rough sea warnings have been issued for coastal areas of Madeira, Beja, Faro, Lisbon, and Setubal districts Dec. 8-9. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed 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.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. 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 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.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, 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.
