While a large part of the country is still under ‘maximum risk’ for wildfires, there is a new ‘danger’ on the horizon: very rough seas with high waves that could leave some beaches (in the north) “without sand”.
IPMA (sea and atmosphere institute) is putting Portugal’s 10 coastal districts under a yellow warning from 6am tomorrow morning, until midnight on Wednesday.
This translates into the coastal areas of Viana do Castelo, Braga, Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra, Leiria, Lisbon, Setúbal, Beja and Faro (meaning the Algarve as a whole).
IPMA forecasts “northwesterly waves of up to 4 metres, which could reach a maximum of 7 metres, stating: “It is worth noting the very high values expected during the peak period, between 15 and 20 seconds, which will result in very energetic waves with a high volume of water, significantly increasing the risk of strong rip currents near the coast”.
Combined with the afternoon high tide, “several beaches may be left without sand”, says the institute, suggesting these are more beaches on the west coast.
“Due to the north-westerly direction of the swell, the south coast of the Algarve will not be as exposed to this situation, with south-westerly waves of up to one metre expected,” it explains.
The swell will remain strong on the west coast throughout the week, however, with significant heights of between two and three metres.
“Although not unprecedented, this situation is uncommon in July and August, so it is recommended that warnings be monitored – and that recommendations suggested by the competent authorities be followed,” says the Institute, adding the situation is the result of the position of post-tropical cyclone ERIN.
Source: Lusa
