Portugal Shuts Schools, Public Offices as Storm Threatens

Portugal Shuts Schools, Public Offices as Storm Threatens

Portugal has ordered the closure of schools and non-essential public services on Wednesday, November 11, as Storm Charles threatens the country with torrential rainfall and destructive winds.

The government has urged residents to remain indoors, warning that wind gusts could reach 150 kilometres per hour, raising concerns about flooding, falling trees and damage to infrastructure.

Interior Minister Luís Neves announced the measures on Tuesday, November 10, describing the approaching weather conditions as exceptionally dangerous and advising employers to allow staff to work remotely.

Authorities have also placed emergency services and military personnel on alert in preparation for possible rescue operations. Outdoor activities have been suspended, while access to parks, gardens and forests faces restrictions in areas considered dangerous.

Eight districts, including Lisbon, Leiria, Setúbal, Beja and Faro, have been placed under the highest weather alert as the storm approaches mainland Portugal.

Storm Charles is expected to affect Madeira from Tuesday before moving towards mainland Portugal on Wednesday. Forecasters have warned of intense rainfall, powerful winds and potentially dangerous coastal conditions.

The latest closures follow a series of destructive storms that battered Portugal and neighbouring Spain earlier this year, causing widespread flooding, infrastructure damage and several deaths.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary journeys, stay away from waterways and coastal areas, and follow official weather and emergency updates.