According to IPMA – Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere), storm Martinho will bring intense rain and sea turbulence between March 19 and 21.
Storm Martinho forecast
Persistent, sometimes heavy rain is expected from March 19, first on the coast and gradually spreading inland.
Until March 21, the total accumulated rainfall is expected to be between 50 and 100mm in the central and southern regions and on the north coast, and may occasionally be higher on the central coast. This precipitation could be snow at the highest points of the Serra da Estrela, with the altitude dropping to 1,500 meters on the 21st.
The wind will increase in intensity, blowing from the south/southeast with gusts that could reach 80 to 90 km/h, especially on the coast, and 110 to 120 km/h in the highlands.
Sea turbulence will also increase, with southwest waves of 4 to 5 meters expected south of Cape Carvoeiro and 3 to 4 meters north of that cape.
In the Greater Lisbon area, periods of very cloudy skies are forecast; scattered showers (during the afternoon); and weak to moderate winds (up to 30 km/h) from the west.
How should you prepare?
Due to this weather situation, yellow warnings have already been issued for sea turbulence, as well as orange warnings for wind and precipitation.
In view of these adverse weather conditions, the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) warns of potential risks:
- Flooding in urban areas and flooding in watercourses;
- Landslides and landslides;
- Dangerous road conditions due to sheets of water, ice or snow;
- Accidents on the coast caused by strong sea waves;
- Damage caused by objects swept away by strong winds.
In the same press release, ANEPC recommends various safety measures:
- Unblocking rainwater drainage systems;
- Proper securing of loose structures such as scaffolding and scoreboards;
- Avoid driving through wooded areas and along coastlines;
- Drive defensively and avoid roads affected by snow;
- Pay attention to weather reports and follow the instructions of the authorities.
The population is also advised to stay informed and follow the recommendations of the competent authorities to ensure safety during this period of adverse weather conditions.