After the “damage” left by the Kristin depression, from which Portugal (mainly the Leiria area) is still recovering, a new storm has been announced for the coming days (until Saturday), which could bring flooding: the Leonardo storm.
According to the authorities responsible for measuring the intensity of these storms, the Leonardo depression could bring the equivalent of three days of rain in just 24 hours, threatening the logistics of the upcoming elections, scheduled for Sunday, February 8.
It will not just be “another rainy day.”
© CML
The greatest concerns are for Thursday, February 5, when heavy rains are forecast, although the phenomenon is expected to pass quickly. The main points to remember are:
- Intensity
- Persistent and sometimes heavy rainfall, with the potential to cause rapid flooding in urban areas;
- Accumulation
- The hourly rainfall ratio will be significantly higher than average, putting pressure on river basins;
- Wind
- Accompanying the rain, increased sea turbulence and gusts are expected, which may hinder traffic.
According to experts, storm Leonardo does not appear to be as intense as Kristin, especially in terms of wind strength (gusts of up to 100 km/h are expected); however, it may produce more intense and persistent rainfall.
Forecasts also confirm that election Sunday will be marked by persistent rain, and although the Leonardo depression may have lost some of its direct force, atmospheric instability will remain high throughout the country.
If we had to suggest a time for you to go to the polls, we would recommend the morning, trying to avoid the periods of greatest intensity forecast for the afternoon; and check the condition of the access roads to your polling station in advance.
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