This phenomenon will be accompanied by hail in the Iberian Peninsula. During a DANA (High Level Isolated Depression) , the air undergoes a drastic change in atmospheric pressure levels and the torrential rains that can be seen at this time are formed. The concept of cold drop refers only to the consequences caused by this depression isolated in height and is used colloquially to announce that we are going to have dangerous rain events. However, experts in the field have chosen the name DANA to explain the process by which it originates.
This very intense current of winds in the upper levels of the troposphere that move from west to east, separates the cold polar air from the warm tropical air. However, the polar jet ripples into a pocket of cold air that is surrounded by warm air, where DANA is generated.
Many Spanish communities are on alert after the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) launched a forecast alert for the first snowfalls during the week. Hence, it is vitally important to follow certain recommendations to protect ourselves from a DANA:
First of all, if we are caught in the middle of a DANA while driving, where we are likely to encounter roadblocks or traffic jams, it is very important not to cross the stream (unnecessary risks are useless), pay close attention to the road, reduce speed, and its tunnels and, above all, if the situation on the road is very complicated by torrential rains, it is preferable to find an alternative route if possible, turn around and if we cannot do any of this, warn to emergencies as a last resort.
Remember that the water reaches the middle of the car, the vehicle will be carried away by the current. If this happens to us, we must remove our seat belt, lower the windows or break a window to be able to get out of it and climb to the roof of the vehicle.
If we are at home, we must try not to go out and avoid drafts. If we are outside, we must get away from metal objects, trees or barbed wire and quickly seek shelter.
