Portugal is preparing to face a period of atmospheric instability starting on Wednesday, November 13, when an atmospheric depression at altitude, technically known as DANA (High Level Atmospheric Depression), also called “cold drop,” approaches of the national territory. This forecast of intense rain and thunderstorms is expected to continue until the weekend, according to the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).
Meteorologist Alexandra Fonseca, from IPMA, revealed to CNN Portugal that, despite the similarities with the recent phenomenon that affected the Valencia region, in Spain, the effects in Portugal should not be as severe. “The amounts of precipitation predicted, as of today and with the data we now have, are not, for now, worrying, and we will not issue any warning,” said the expert, stressing that IPMA will remain attentive and updated with new data to adjust forecasts as needed.
In addition to the forecast of precipitation and thunderstorms, the influence of DANA will begin to be felt on Tuesday, with a drop in minimum and maximum temperatures, which in some areas should not exceed 20°C. Alexandra Fonseca also warned of the possibility of snowfall in the highest areas of Serra da Estrela, a consequence of the cold air mass associated with this atmospheric depression.
The IPMA informs that, from Thursday onwards, there may be a slight increase in temperatures, approaching the usual values for the month of November. Temperatures in Portugal have been slightly above average for the season, and this “cold drop” episode should contribute to the return to more typical autumn conditions.
This cold drop phenomenon is relatively common in periods of seasonal transition, such as autumn and spring, when cold air masses are isolated at altitude, generating atmospheric instability. The presence of this cold air mass at high altitude creates conditions for intense showers and thunderstorms.
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