22 Feb 2023 | 02:54 PM UTC
Spain: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern and north-central regions through at least Feb. 24
Adverse winter weather forecast across northern and north-central Spain, through at least Feb. 24. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across much of northern and north-central Spain through at least Feb. 24. Snowfall accumulations of up to 20 cm (8 inches) are possible in Pyrennean regions and accumulations of around 5 cm (2 inches) are possible across much of the affected area. Cold temperatures are also expected and could reach as low as -10 C (14 F) in parts of the affected regions. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and redcued visibility caused by blowing snow.
As of Feb. 22, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Feb. 23-24:
Orange snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of northern Aragon, southern Basque Country, central and eastern Cantabria, eastern and northeastern Catsile and Leon, and central Navarre autonomous communities.
Orange low temperature warnings: Parts of northern Aragon and northeastern Castile-La Mancha autonomous communities.
Yellow snowfall warnings: Across much of the rest of the affected area not under orange snowfall warnings.
Yellow low temperature warnings: Parts of southern and western Aragon, southern Asturias, southern Cantabria, eastern, northern, and southern Castile and Leon, northeastern Castile-La Mancha, southern La Rioja, and cenrtal and northeastern Navarre autonomous communities.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
