Feb 2, 2026, 1:37 p.mFeb 2, 2026, 1:37 p.m
After the severe Atlantic storm “Kristin” and in view of further rainfall, the authorities in Portugal released large amounts of water from overflowing reservoirs. Within two days, around 500 million cubic meters of water had been discharged into rivers in a controlled manner.
The storm “Kristin” caused extensive damage.Image: EPA LUSA
This was reported by the state TV broadcaster RTP, citing the environmental authority. This corresponds to the consumption in the greater Lisbon area with its three million inhabitants in three years.
Almost all of the country’s rivers were already in flood, and further storms with rain were expected in the coming days. In view of the adverse weather conditions, the government extended the state of emergency for the entire country until next Sunday, when the runoff election for the presidency will also take place.
The new low pressure area that passed over the country in southwestern Europe on Monday night brought significant rainfall. However, the soil is already very saturated from recent storms and can hardly absorb any additional water.
Part of the roof of the old university collapsed in Figueira da Foz as a result of storm Kristin.Image: EPA LUSA
Road and rail traffic was hindered in several regions by floods and landslides. On the coasts, the second highest alert level was orange due to stormy winds and high waves.
Authority registered over 260 missions
The civil protection authority ANEPC registered 263 operations related to the storm between midnight and Monday morning, most of them in the Lisbon region and the Tagus Valley, as reported by the state news agency Lusa. Fallen trees, floods, building damage and landslides were the most common reasons.
Destroyed buildings after the passage of Storm Kristin in Marinha Grande, Leiria.Image: EPA LUSA
Nothing was initially reported about new victims. However, at least five people were killed in the storm “Kristin” last Wednesday. And since then, there have been three more deaths and hundreds injured during cleanup efforts. (sda/dpa)