Portuguese civil protection authorities have warned that unstable weather conditions will continue across mainland Portugal until Wednesday, 11 January, bringing persistent heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough sea conditions and snowfall in some areas.
According to the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), the prolonged rainfall is expected to significantly increase the risk of flooding, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country.
The national operational commander of Civil Protection, Mário Silvestre, explained that many river basins are already operating at or near their maximum capacity, meaning that any additional rainfall is likely to worsen flood situations in several parts of the country. He stressed that the main concern is not only the volume of rain itself, but the impact it will have on watercourses and drainage systems.
Authorities are urging the public to take extra precautions, especially when travelling, as road conditions may deteriorate rapidly. Civil Protection also highlighted that rivers and streams in the Minho region are expected to be among the most affected, with higher impacts anticipated during Tuesday.
At the administrative level, emergency response measures have been reinforced nationwide. A total of 11 district emergency and civil protection plans have been activated across mainland Portugal. In addition, 125 municipal emergency plans are currently in force, alongside 19 municipal alert declarations issued by local authorities.
Civil Protection confirmed that the special flood response plan for the Tagus river basin remains at its highest alert stage.
Mário Silvestre underlined that the real threat comes from rising water levels rather than the rainfall alone, warning that overflowing rivers may create serious risks for communities.
Several major rivers are currently considered to be at particularly high risk of flooding, including the Mondego, Tagus, Sorraia and Sado. Other river basins under close monitoring include the Vouga, Águeda, Lima, Cávado, Ave, Douro, Tâmega, Lis and Guadiana.
