Storm Charles Aftermath: Cancelled Flights and Weekend Flood Alerts
Three days after Storm Charles brought widespread flight disruption to Portugal and Spain, the immediate picture has changed. On 11 November, airlines cancelled hundreds of services as heavy rain and fierce winds swept across the Iberian Peninsula. By Saturday, 14 November, Portugal faced less severe weather, while parts of Italy remained under flood alerts. Passengers travelling this weekend need to distinguish Wednesday's cancellations from current flight conditions.
What to Check Before Travelling This Weekend
- Check your flight with the airline before leaving, even if you have checked in.
- Confirm any revised departure time and terminal, particularly on connecting journeys.
- Ask your airline about alternative flights or a refund if your booking was cancelled.
- Keep receipts for reasonable meals, hotels and airport transfers while waiting.
- Check weather warnings and road access before arranging onward transport.
- Use official airport departure boards to confirm updates.
At 11:00 on Wednesday, Portugal's airport operator ANA reported 288 flight movements cancelled in advance at Lisbon, plus 22 cancellations during operations. It also listed cancellations at Madeira, Faro and Porto. Madrid-Barajas recorded 155 cancellations, according to The Guardian. On Friday, Portugal's weather service confirmed 502.7mm of rain at Madeira's Chão do Areeiro in 24 hours, setting a national daily rainfall record.
For Saturday, Portugal's meteorological agency forecast showers, particularly in central areas, rather than a repeat of Wednesday's worst weather. In Italy, an orange river-flood warning remained in force across parts of Emilia-Romagna, including Modena and Bologna provinces. Regional authorities said Friday's rainfall could keep river levels high despite no significant new weather expected on Saturday. Flooding and landslide risks may still affect road journeys.
Wednesday's disruption may have consequences beyond the worst of the weather, particularly for passengers with connecting flights or separate onward bookings. A replacement flight could arrive too late for a train connection or land at a different airport. Under UK and EU passenger-rights rules, severe weather may exempt airlines from paying fixed compensation, but it does not remove their obligations to offer refunds, rerouting and appropriate care.e care, including meals and accommodation when needed. Keep receipts for essential expenses.
