Storm Kristin Leaves 200,000 Portuguese Without Power; More Rain Expected
Portugal is preparing for additional heavy rainfall this Saturday, as approximately 200,000 residents remain without electricity following the passage of storm Kristin. The severe weather system caused the deaths of five individuals and resulted in flooding, material damage, and transportation disruptions.
Two Men Die in Separate Incidents While Repairing Damaged Roofs
Two men lost their lives on Saturday in separate incidents while attempting to repair roof damage caused by the powerful winds. A 73-year-old man fell while replacing tiles in Batalha, near the Leiria district (central Portugal), according to local officials. In Alcobaca (central Portugal), Mayor Herminio Rodrigues reported the death of another man without providing further details.
“We urge the public not to put themselves at risk trying to fix damages in such situations without technical knowledge or proper safety conditions,” added the mayor.
IPMA Issues Warnings and Encourages Staying Informed
The Portuguese Meteorological Institute (IPMA) placed the entire continental territory of Portugal on high alert for heavy rainfall until Monday and advised the public to stay informed.
Storm Kristin hit central and northern Portugal on the night of Tuesday with hurricane-force winds, causing flooding, material damage, and transportation disruptions.
The storm toppled approximately 5,800 trees across the country and necessitated 34 land rescues and 17 water rescues, according to emergency services.
Power Outages Affecting 200,000 Residents
As of Saturday afternoon, around 198,000 users remained without power, primarily in the central region, as reported by E-redes, the electricity grid operator.
The majority of these outages are in Leiria, where the storm brought down power lines and high-voltage lines.
Generators deployed to support hospitals, water systems, and telecommunications.
Leiria’s Mayor Gonçalo Lopes called for volunteers to assist in repairing damaged roofs before more rain arrives.
“We anticipate more rain starting midnight,” he told private television channel SIC. “This is a concern for us.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation in Portugal? Portugal is preparing for more heavy rainfall, with approximately 200,000 residents still without power following storm Kristin.
- How many people have died due to the storm? Five individuals, including two men who died while repairing roof damage, have lost their lives.
- What areas are most affected by power outages? The central region, particularly Leiria, is experiencing the most significant power outages due to downed power lines and high-voltage lines.
- What is the IPMA’s advice? The Portuguese Meteorological Institute advises the public to stay informed about heavy rainfall warnings until Monday.
- What measures are being taken to support essential services? Generators have been deployed to assist hospitals, water systems, and telecommunications in maintaining operations.
