Portugal is bracing for a significant weather shift as two storms, Charles and Bruna, are expected to impact the region. The Atlantic archipelago of Madeira will face the weather from late Tuesday, while the mainland is set to experience the effects throughout Wednesday.
The Portuguese government has issued an urgent warning via social media, advising citizens: “Only go out if it is really necessary, especially during peaks of rain and wind.” For those who must drive, the government stressed the need to proceed “with maximum caution.” Authorities also recommended that residents keep torches or alternative light sources and charged devices like power banks readily available.
The Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA) has issued orange warnings for rain, wind, and rough seas across several mainland districts, including Lisbon, Évora, Faro, Setúbal, Santarém, Leiria, Beja, and Castelo Branco. According to the IPMA, the mainland will begin feeling the effects of Storm Charles from late Tuesday morning, with rainfall expected to be “at times heavy over most of the territory.” Forecasters anticipate wind gusts reaching 120 km/h and waves as high as six metres.
Madeira is under a red warning—the highest level of alert—for its mountains and south coast, effective from 9pm on Tuesday until 6am on Wednesday, after which it will be downgraded to orange until 9am. The north coast of Madeira is under an orange warning from 9pm to 9am, while the neighboring island of Porto Santo is under a yellow warning for the same period. The IPMA forecasts persistent, heavy rain and potential thunderstorms, with wind gusts reaching 130 km/h on high ground and waves on the south coast potentially hitting 4.5 metres.
The government has warned of significant risks, including flooding, landslides, collapsing structures, falling trees, and coastal accidents. Power and communications may be interrupted. Officials are urging the public to clear drains, gutters, and water channels of debris to ensure proper drainage and to remove any objects that might obstruct water flow. Residents are advised to stay away from rivers, streams, and historically flood-prone areas, noting that “water hides holes and open manholes and can sweep away people and cars.”
Furthermore, the government cautioned that beaches, cliffs, breakwaters, piers, and riverbanks are dangerous. Drivers are advised against parking in flood-prone areas, underground car parks, or under trees, and property owners should secure scaffolding and other structures. Because drainage systems may be unable to handle the expected rainfall, flooding is anticipated in various towns and cities. A source from the brigade reported that roads in the areas of Segunda Circular, Campo Grande, Prior Velho, and Olivais were temporarily closed but have since been resolved, and three trees fell without causing harm to people or property. The National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) was scheduled to provide an update on the storm's impact at 8:30am on Tuesday.
