Weather tracker: Storm Claudia brings more flooding to Portugal and Spain

Portugal and Spain are reeling from yet another bout of flooding brought on by Storm Claudia. The storm system originated in an area of low pressure that was previously responsible for cold and snowy conditions in eastern Canada and the US Northeast early last month.

As the system traversed the Atlantic, it intensified into a powerful force that stalled off the Iberian Peninsula. Over Galicia in northwestern Spain, 80 to 150mm of rain fell over just 24 hours, wreaking havoc on the region. The deluge pushed into western Portugal, causing catastrophic flooding in Lisbon where an elderly couple perished after water from the overflowing Tagus River entered their home while they slept.

The destruction didn't stop there as Claudia's effects were felt across western Europe. By drawing warm air from the tropics, the system pushed temperatures in southwestern France to a record high of 29.8C (85.6F), the country's highest November temperature on record. This clash of warm and cold air masses formed a band of rain stretching from western Ireland to Russia, causing severe flooding in Wales.

Meanwhile, in California, an atmospheric river brought heavy rain and strong winds, leading to flash flooding and mudslides in areas affected by wildfires earlier this year. Over 50mm of rain fell in southern California on Friday, with another 50mm falling across the state on Saturday, resulting in over 100mm of rain along coastal areas and a total of 200mm in some spots.

The latest storm system has had a profound impact on both sides of the Atlantic, leaving many to wonder if this marks the beginning of winter. As Claudia continues to weaken early this week, the cold air mass will push south, bringing Europe its first taste of winter.

"Nature is not a place to visit. It is home." This storm system has shown us just how much Mother Nature can be unforgiving, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake from Canada to California and all the way to Europe. It's a harsh reminder that we're not in control of the weather patterns, but we can take steps to prepare for these extreme events.

Ugh I feel so bad for those folks in Portugal and Spain they got hit with a ton of rain and it's just devastating. I mean, 150mm in 24 hours? That's crazy talk! And the fact that an elderly couple lost their life in Lisbon is just heart breaking

And can we talk about how California is still recovering from those wildfires? It's like they're getting slammed with more bad weather it's not even fair to the people who are already going through so much. I guess that's just what you get when you live in a place prone to natural disasters

But on the bright side, at least the cold air mass is coming to Europe soon it'll be nice to see some winter vibes for a change. And hey, maybe this storm will finally give us an excuse to switch out our summer clothes for something warmer and cozier

I'm so sad about what's happening in Portugal and Spain - 80-150mm of rain in just 24 hours is insane! And in California, it's like they're getting a second dose of the same thing that was affecting them earlier this year with wildfires. It's like Mother Nature is still trying to get her balance back after all the weird weather we've been having lately .

I'm also loving how Storm Claudia has brought some warmth to southwestern France, but at what cost? 29.8C in November is crazy! And I can imagine it's not easy for people like that elderly couple who lost their lives in Lisbon - it's just devastating .

It makes me wonder if this is a sign of things to come, though. Is winter finally on its way? Either way, let's all hope the next few days are a bit calmer and more predictable .

I don’t usually comment but this Storm Claudia is crazy . I mean, 80-150mm of rain in just 24 hours? That's insane! The pictures from western Portugal are heartbreaking, especially that elderly couple who lost their lives in the flood. And on the other side of the Atlantic, California is dealing with its own flash flooding and mudslides... it's like the whole world is getting flooded . I don’t know about anyone else but this feels like we're finally entering winter. The cold air mass pushing south from Europe is a clear sign that things are starting to cool down . It’s just another reminder of how unpredictable the weather can be these days .

wow that's crazy! I mean, 29.8C in November is insane and the flooding in Portugal and Spain is so sad . I'm still trying to get my head around how one storm system can affect so many places across Europe and California . And then there's this whole thing about cold air masses and warm air, like, what's going on with that? does it mean we're getting an early winter or something? I'm not sure if I should be excited or scared . Can someone explain the science behind all this to me?