Brace for Impact: Storm Herminia to Bring Cyclonic Winds, 11-Meter Waves, and Snow to Portugal

Storm Herminia is set to hit Portugal following the recent impact of Storm Éowyn, dubbed the 'storm of the century'. This new storm is expected to bring gusts of wind exceeding 100 km/h, waves up to 11 meters, and heavy snowfall starting from Sunday night. The Spanish meteorological institute, AEMET, has officially named this storm, which is anticipated to affect the Iberian Peninsula starting Sunday evening and intensifying into Monday.

Key Details of Storm Herminia

• Cyclonic Winds: Strong gusts, potentially exceeding 120 km/h in some areas.
• Severe Waves: Waves reaching up to 11 meters along the northern coast.
• Heavy Rainfall: Widespread heavy rains, particularly in Galicia and northern Portugal.
• Snowfall: Expect significant snowfall in higher altitudes, potentially blanketing the northern and central regions.

Warnings and Alerts

Yellow alerts have been issued for six districts for heavy rain and seven districts for wind, while orange alerts are in effect for coastal regions from Aveiro to Viana do Castelo. The storm's impact will begin to be felt late Sunday, with conditions worsening overnight into Monday.

The Meteorology Institute warns of torrential rain and thunderstorms throughout Monday and Tuesday.

Temperature Drops

Temperatures are expected to drop, especially in the north and inland areas, contributing to the likelihood of snow in elevated regions starting Monday afternoon.

Storm Herminia, like its predecessor, has formed over the Atlantic under a strong jet stream, and its effects are expected to be significant not only in Portugal but also in the British Isles, with Ireland facing a direct hit. Further storms are anticipated later in the week.