Carnival Weather Warning Update
The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued an updated weather warning for mainland Portugal, Madeira, and the Azores, effective until March 4th.
In mainland Portugal, a depression over the Iberian Peninsula, combined with a cold air mass, will influence the weather conditions. Showers are expected, particularly in the southern regions, while the north will see less frequent precipitation. Thunderstorms may accompany some of the showers, with a higher likelihood of rain until March 3rd. Scattered showers may also occur on Carnival day, especially in the afternoon. Snowfall is anticipated in the highlands of the North and Center, although the chances will diminish by the end of March 3rd. Winds will generally be weak to moderate from the east, with stronger gusts in highland areas. Temperatures are expected to rise slightly, with minimums ranging from 5 to 10°C on the coast and -1 to 8°C in the interior, while maximums will vary between 15 to 20°C on the coast and 10 to 15°C inland. A specific warning for snowfall has been issued for Serra da Estrela in the districts of Guarda and Castelo Branco, valid until midnight on March 4th.
In Madeira, the weather will be influenced by a northeasterly flow due to an anticyclone in the Azores and a depression between Madeira and the Iberian Peninsula. Showers are expected, particularly on the northern slopes and in the highlands, with potential snowfall at the highest elevations. Winds will be light to moderate from the northeast, with stronger gusts in the eastern and western extremes of the island. Sea conditions will see northerly waves of 2 to 3 meters on the north coast, while the south coast will experience waves of less than 1 meter. Temperatures will remain relatively stable, with minimums between 9 and 15°C, approaching 0°C at the highest points, and maximums ranging from 15 to 20°C, not exceeding 10°C in the highlands.
In the Azores, the weather will be influenced by high-pressure systems, with light showers possible on the Central and Eastern islands. Winds will vary across the groups, with light to moderate winds from the south in the Western Group and north/northeast winds in the Central and Eastern Groups. Sea conditions will feature waves from the northern quadrant of 1 to 3 meters throughout the archipelago, with minimum temperatures expected between 11 and 13°C and maximums ranging from 16 to 18°C.
As Carnival approaches, residents and visitors in Portugal, Madeira, and the Azores should stay informed about the weather conditions and prepare for potential rain, snow, and wind, particularly in highland areas.