Spain is bracing for severe weather conditions as subtropical Storm Charles approaches, following in the wake of Storm Bruna. The impending storm is expected to bring torrential rain, strong winds, and hazardous sea conditions across various regions.
A rare red weather alert has been issued for northern Cáceres and southern Ávila on Tuesday, November 10, with forecasts predicting up to 120mm of rainfall within 12 hours. Authorities have warned of potential flash floods, rapidly swelling rivers, and possible landslides in these areas.
In response to the severe weather threat, schools in northern Cáceres have been ordered to close, and Extremadura’s emergency flood response plan has been activated. Some mountainous regions could see rainfall exceeding 150mm, with total precipitation possibly surpassing 300mm during the storm’s duration.
Conditions are expected to worsen on Wednesday, November 11, as Storm Charles advances toward the Iberian Peninsula. Western and southern parts of Spain, including Andalucía, Extremadura, and Castilla y León, may experience persistent downpours, with rainfall nearing 100mm in some mountainous areas.
Strong winds pose another significant risk, with gusts potentially exceeding 100km/h in exposed areas of western and southwestern Spain. The Canary Islands are also at risk, with La Palma and Tenerife possibly experiencing gusts above 130km/h in mountainous regions.
Coastal areas are not exempt from the storm’s impact, with waves expected to reach up to five meters in the Gulf of Cádiz, while western Galicia could see waves between four and five meters. Authorities have cautioned residents about the dangers of flooding, hazardous travel conditions, toppled trees, and damage from strong winds.
While the weather is forecasted to gradually improve by Thursday as Storm Charles moves northeast, heavy showers and strong gusts may persist in some regions. Residents and travelers are advised to stay informed through official weather alerts and adhere to local emergency instructions as the situation unfolds.