Storm Claudia Unleashes Deadly Flooding and Widespread Disruption Across Portugal

Deadly Flooding Claims Two Lives in Setúbal

Storm Claudia has caused significant devastation across Portugal, leading to at least two fatalities in the district of Setúbal. An elderly couple, both in their 80s, were discovered dead on Thursday morning inside their flooded home in Fernão Ferro, approximately 30 kilometers south of Lisbon. Authorities, including the National Republican Guard, forced entry into their completely inundated residence where the bodies were found floating.

Widespread Incidents and Power Outages Reported

Since its arrival on Wednesday, November 12th, 2025, Storm Claudia has generated a multitude of emergencies across mainland Portugal and the Madeira archipelago. As of 11:00 AM local time on Thursday, November 13th, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) reported a total of 918 incidents nationwide. These incidents primarily include:

• 594 cases of flooding
• 140 fallen trees

The Lisbon and Tagus Valley region has been particularly hard-hit, accounting for 540 incidents. Additionally, five people were displaced from two flooded homes in Alferrarede, Abrantes. The storm has also led to extensive power disruptions, with approximately 16,000 households and consumers experiencing outages as of Thursday morning, predominantly in the districts of Lisbon, Santarém, and Setúbal. Earlier reports indicated up to 20,000 customers without electricity.

Severe Weather Warnings and Disruptions

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issued a red warning for heavy and persistent rain in the districts of Setúbal and Santarém, the most severe alert level. Orange and yellow warnings remain in effect for numerous other districts across the country due to anticipated heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas.

Wind gusts have reached up to 90 km/h on the coast and an estimated 120 km/h in highland areas. Maritime conditions are also severe, with waves measuring between 4 to 5.5 meters, leading to the closure of several ports and harbors and restrictions on navigation. Traffic has been significantly impacted by fallen trees and flooded roads, and schools in Montijo were closed on Thursday morning.

Ongoing Response and Forecast

Civil Protection authorities have urged the public to adopt preventive measures, including clearing drainage systems and securing loose structures. Electricity provider E-REDES has assured that its teams are 'on permanent alert and mobilised in the field' for a 'quick resolution of the situation'. Storm Claudia is expected to persist through the weekend, with forecasts indicating continued heavy rainfall, potentially exceeding 150 mm in some areas by Sunday.