Portugal Under Orange Weather Alert for Severe Conditions on November 5

Widespread Orange Alert Issued Across Mainland Portugal

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued an orange weather alert for nearly all of mainland Portugal for Wednesday, November 5, 2025. This alert, the second-most severe in the country's warning system, indicates a meteorological situation posing a moderate to high risk to the population. Residents and travelers are advised to exercise increased caution due to anticipated severe weather conditions.

Details of the Weather Warning

The orange alert primarily covers 17 districts of mainland Portugal, with the exception of Bragança, which remains under a yellow alert for rain. The severe weather is expected to manifest through several phenomena:

• Heavy Rainfall: Rainfall is forecast to be 'occasionally heavy and accompanied by thunderstorms,' particularly during the passage of a cold front and continuing until late Wednesday morning. Some regions may experience 'persistent and sometimes intense rainfall.'
• Strong Winds: Forecasts indicate strong winds from the southern quadrant, with gusts potentially reaching up to 80 km/h along the coast and up to 100 km/h in the highlands of the northern and central regions.
• Maritime Agitation: Increased maritime agitation is expected on the western coast. Waves are predicted to measure between 4 to 5 meters, with the possibility of temporarily reaching 5 to 6 meters from Wednesday night into early Thursday morning. An orange alert specifically for maritime agitation has been issued for this period.
• Other Conditions: There is also a possibility of hail in some areas.

Potential Impacts and Public Recommendations

The IPMA's orange alert highlights the potential for significant disruptions and hazards. These include:

• Localized Flooding: Urban areas may experience flooding due to rainwater accumulation and blocked drainage systems.
• River Overflows: There is a risk of rivers and streams overflowing their banks.
• Travel Disruption: Road safety may be compromised due to slippery surfaces and rapidly changing conditions, potentially impacting urban mobility.
• Slope Instability: Water infiltration could lead to mass movements such as landslides and collapses, especially in areas with reduced vegetation cover.

Authorities, including the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC), urge the public to monitor official weather updates from the IPMA, limit non-essential travel, and adhere to instructions from local civil protection authorities. Taking precautions to secure loose structures and ensuring clear drainage systems are also recommended.