The approach of a new Isolated High Level Depression (DANA), also known as “cold drop”, is generating alert and preventive measures in several regions of the Iberian Peninsula. This atmospheric phenomenon, which has already been shown to have a devastating impact in previous events, such as the one that recently hit Valencia, now puts parts of Spain and Portugal on alert.
In recent days, images shared on social media, such as the popular Facebook page, reveal unusual actions to protect property: in Valencia, cars were tied to posts and covered with a protective film. These measures, adopted in the hope of avoiding damage, result from the trauma caused by the previous storm, which swept away vehicles and caused extensive damage. Many of these cars have not even been recovered from the waters that carried them away.
The DANA phenomenon and the formation of Gota Fria
DANA, or Isolated High Level Depression, is a meteorological situation characteristic of autumn and spring in the western Mediterranean region. The phenomenon occurs when a mass of cold air, separated from the polar jet stream, comes into contact with warmer, moister air over the Mediterranean Sea. This process creates ideal conditions for intense precipitation and torrential rain, common at this time of year in Spain.
In recent years, cold drops have become more intense and frequent, also affecting areas outside the usual Mediterranean regions. Experts point to the increase in global temperatures as one of the main causes, as warming of the air and sea surface allows greater moisture retention, triggering heavier rains.
Regions on alert and possible impacts in Portugal
For Portugal, the districts of Beja and Faro are under initial warning between 6am and 12pm on Thursday, and later between 6am and 3pm on Friday. The districts of Lisbon and Setúbal will also go on alert between 12pm and 6pm on Thursday. This state of alert requires increased attention, particularly in lower areas and close to streams, given the risk of flash flooding.
In addition to official warnings, experts recommend prevention measures, especially for those who live in areas prone to flooding. It is suggested to avoid unnecessary travel at critical times, reinforce drainage systems and ensure that vehicles and other assets are safe in elevated locations.
A reality worsened by climate change
Recent data indicate that the increase in average temperatures, as well as the warming of the Mediterranean Sea, has contributed to the intensification of DANA. Last August, the waters of the Mediterranean reached the highest temperatures ever recorded, creating an environment ripe for severe atmospheric phenomena and generating increasing concern for the affected regions.
Faced with worsening climate phenomena, measures like those in Valencia – however unusual they may seem – reflect the urgency felt by local communities to protect what they can from a threat that appears to be increasingly unpredictable and destructive.
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