Red Alert Issued for Porto as Post-Tropical Storm Gabrielle Unleashes 11-Meter Waves and Heavy Rain Across Portugal

Severe Weather Warnings Escalate Across Portugal

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has escalated the rain alert to red level for the Porto district and maintains orange warnings for 12 continental districts due to maritime unrest and heavy rainfall caused by the passage of post-tropical depression Gabrielle.

Orange Alert Extended for Coastal Areas

The orange alert for maritime unrest has been extended until 09:00, with waves from the west/southwest expected to reach significant heights of 5 to 6 meters, potentially peaking at 11 meters maximum height, according to IPMA.

Additional Districts Under Orange Alert

IPMA has expanded the number of districts under orange alert for maritime unrest. Initially covering Aveiro, Porto, Leiria, Lisboa, Setúbal, and Faro, the alert now includes Beja, Braga, and Coimbra as well.

Civil Protection Reports Minimal Incidents

Despite the severe conditions, the National Authority for Civil Protection reported no "significant occurrences" overnight. The District Command of Relief Operations (CDOS) in Porto confirmed an increase in incidents but noted none were major.

Rainfall Warnings Intensify

Beyond the red alert in Porto, orange alerts for precipitation are now in effect for Braga, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Guarda, and Viseu, with Aveiro added and Beja removed from this group. Heavy rain is forecasted, especially until mid-morning.

Widespread Wind Warnings

All continental districts are under yellow wind warnings, with gusts up to 90 km/h, particularly along the coast and mountainous areas. These warnings extend until 18:00 in coastal districts and are in effect overnight in inland regions.

Northern Region Bears the Brunt

The Northern region is expected to be the most affected by post-tropical depression Gabrielle. However, IPMA notes uncertainty regarding the depression's trajectory, which initially impacted the Azores archipelago on Thursday.

Azores Impact and Response

The Azores Civil Protection recorded 196 incidents in the archipelago, with no injuries reported, but 16 people required relocation. The Regional Government declared a state of alert from Thursday 18:00 to Sunday 18:00, leading to closures of services and various prohibitions for the Western and Central groups. Although the alert was lifted early, schools and public services remain closed.