The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) does not rule out new floods this week as rain is forecast to return and persist until Sunday, raising the risk of local flash floods in vulnerable areas. Authorities and local civil protection services may issue alerts if conditions worsen; residents in flood‑prone zones should review evacuation plans and secure property. Those travelling this week should check local warnings and allow extra time for journeys.
Heavy rain returns; IPMA warns flood risk
Sunday, 1 March 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
IPMA (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera) is Portugal's national authority for weather, ocean, and climate monitoring. It produces weather forecasts, issues severe weather warnings, monitors seismic activity, and provides marine and atmospheric data.
IPMA uses a four-level color-coded warning system: green (no risk), yellow (potential risk), orange (moderate-to-high risk), and red (extreme risk). These warnings cover conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, extreme heat, cold snaps, rough seas, and snow.
Residents should monitor IPMA forecasts during storm season (typically October–March) and heatwaves (July–August). IPMA bulletins are used by civil protection authorities, transport operators, and local councils to make decisions about road closures, school suspensions, and evacuation orders.
Website: ipma.pt
