Storm Claudia has battered parts of Portugal, leaving two dead and prompting widespread damage as it heads toward England and Wales. Authorities in the districts of Setúbal and Faro have kept orange warnings in place due to persistent heavy rain and strong winds.
The storm caused landslides, flooding, and widespread disruption to roads, homes, and vehicles. According to Portugal’s National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection, roughly 2,434 incidents were reported between Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning, most related to flooding. Fallen trees blocked streets and caused additional damage in several areas.
Faro in southern Portugal was particularly affected on Friday. Strong winds and heavy rain flooded streets and uprooted trees, leaving communities cut off. In Azeitão, a road collapsed after a landslide, completely blocking passage in both directions. Flooding was reported across several locations in the Setúbal district, including the Sines market, where water levels rose rapidly.
The storm claimed the lives of an elderly couple in their 80s near Lisbon. Authorities found them inside their home in Fernão Ferro, a suburb of Seixal, one of the worst-hit areas. Emergency services continue to monitor affected neighborhoods for further risks.
All regions of mainland Portugal remain under a yellow warning due to ongoing precipitation, including occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms. Coastal areas face additional risks, with waves of four to five metres expected until Saturday night.
Storm Claudia is expected to reach parts of England and Wales later on Friday, bringing persistent rain and strong winds. The UK Met Office has issued amber warnings in several regions, with additional yellow severe weather warnings covering much of England and Wales. Authorities have advised residents to take precautions against flooding and possible travel disruptions.
The Portuguese authorities have urged residents to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel, as recovery efforts continue in the hardest-hit areas. Emergency teams are working to clear roads, remove fallen trees, and provide assistance to affected communities.
The storm underscores the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events across Europe, causing significant damage to infrastructure and claiming lives in a matter of hours.
