NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC – RAIN AND STRONG WIND STARTING SUNDAY 23rd AUGUST 2026

1.SITUATION

IPMA predicts, during the next few days, a significant change in weather conditions on the mainland, due to the influence of a low pressure system, located west of the mainland, and associated with the passage of fronts.

Thus, precipitation is expected, starting on Sunday, August 23rd, sometimes heavy and persistent, on Monday and Wednesday, with higher accumulations in the Northwest region, especially in Minho and Douro Litoral.

The wind will be, at times, moderate from the south quadrant, with the possibility of gusts along with periods of thunderstorms and heavy rain.

On Monday, August 24th, rough seas are still expected, with waves between 2 and 2.5 m on the west coast.

Temperatures should remain mild, but below the usual values for the season.

Meteorological information at www.ipma.pt

2.EXPECTED EFFECTS

• Areas affected by rural fires, which have no vegetation cover and with ash accumulated on the surface, are more exposed and vulnerable to precipitation.
• With the occurrence of the first rains, it is likely that:
• Flooding may occur in urban areas, due to the accumulation of rainwater, exacerbated by the obstruction of drainage systems;
• Slope instability may occur, leading to landslides, mudslides,etc caused by water infiltration;
• Drag of rocks and other materials onto highways;
• Contamination of drinking water sources by mud/rocks from areas affected by rural fires;
• Slippery road surfaces and accumulation of rainwater on the road, with consequent reduction in safety conditions for road traffic;
• Accidents on the coast, associated with sea agitation.

3.PREVENTIVE MEASURES

The National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority reminds that the impact of these effects can be minimized through the adoption of appropriate behaviors, particularly in historically more vulnerable areas.

It is recommended to:

• Ensure that rainwater drainage systems are unobstructed and that debris and other objects that may be swept away or hinder the normal flow of water are removed;
• Do not cross flooded areas, on foot or with vehicles, due to the risk of being swept away and falling into holes in the pavement or open drains;
• Remove animals, equipment, vehicles and/or other belongings from areas that are usually flooded by rivers/streams, placing them in safe locations;
• Ensure that loose structures are properly secured, namely scaffolding, billboards and other suspended structures;
• Take special care when circulating and remaining near wooded areas, due to the possibility of falling branches and trees during periods of strong winds;
• Adopt defensive driving, reducing speed and paying special attention to the possible accumulation of rainwater on the road and reduced visibility;
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to rough seas, particularly near cliffs, beaches, breakwaters, and other vulnerable coastal areas;
• Pay attention to weather forecasts and instructions from Civil Protection and Security Forces.