The weather is expected to worsen in the coming days in mainland Portugal, forecast Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA)which points to sometimes heavy and persistent precipitation, especially in the North and Center regions, warns the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) in an official statement released on website.
The IPMA also reports on wind, sometimes strong, in the western coastal strip and in the highlands, accompanied by sea agitation to the north of the Cape Espichel with waves of up to 3.5 meters. The period of greatest danger is between 3am and 7am this Friday.
In view of the forecasts, Civil Protection established a level 3 state of readiness for the territory from Alto do Minho to the Setúbal Peninsula and level 2 for the rest of the country, with the exception of Algarve (level 1).
In the next 48 hours, the occurrence of floods in urban areas – as a result of the accumulation of rainwater and the obstruction of drainage systems – and floods caused by the overflow of water courses, rivers and streams.
In the Coura, Mondego, Nabão, Lis, Arnoia and Alcoa rivers, an increase in the flow level is expected, which is why ANEPC recommends monitoring the hydrological situation, and in the Águeda river an increase in flows greater than normal, with the recommendation to intensify surveillance.
ANEPC also warns of the possibility of landslides or overthrown caused by water infiltration, contamination of drinking water sources, slippery road surfaces and possible accidents on the coast (due to strong sea waves) and loose objects on the roads.
In order to minimize the effects of worsening weather conditions, Civil Protection recommends unblocking water drainage systems and removing objects that could be dragged or that obstruct the passage of water, as well as fixing loose structures, such as scaffolding and signs.
In green areas, special care is also advised with falling trees or branches and the movement and parking of vehicles near the coastline should be avoided, as well as activities related to the mar. Animals, agricultural and industrial equipment and other types of goods must also be removed from areas close to watercourses.
On roads, speed must be reduced and drivers must not park in garages or potentially floodable areas and it is recommended that passers-by do not drive through flooded areas. Citizens should also pay attention to information and instructions from Civil Protection and Security Forces.
Text written by André Sousa and edited by Mafalda Ganhão
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