Tens of Thousands in Portugal Remain Without Utilities Six Days After Devastating Storm Kristin

Portugal Grapples with Lingering Storm Aftermath

Six days after Storm Kristin, also known as Tempestade Kristin, battered Portugal, tens of thousands of citizens across central and northern regions continue to endure significant disruptions to essential services. Many households remain without electricity, water, and communications, highlighting the severe and prolonged impact of the extratropical cyclone that struck on January 28, 2026. The storm has been described as the strongest on record for Portugal, leaving a trail of destruction and a substantial recovery challenge.

Widespread Disruption and Tragic Casualties

At its peak, Storm Kristin left between 800,000 and 1 million people without electricity across central and northern Portugal. The districts of Leiria, Coimbra, and Santarém were among the hardest hit, with Leiria experiencing particularly severe damage. Beyond power outages, residents also faced interruptions to their water supply and mobile networks. The storm tragically resulted in 10 fatalities, including six direct and four indirect deaths, caused by incidents such as falling trees, structural collapses, and carbon monoxide poisoning from improperly used generators.

Catastrophic Damage and Economic Toll

The intensity of Storm Kristin, characterized as a 'weather bomb' with hurricane-force winds reaching up to 208 km/h (129 mph), caused extensive physical damage. Thousands of trees were toppled, homes were severely damaged, and critical infrastructure suffered widespread destruction. Road and rail traffic were significantly disrupted, and even military assets were affected, with several F-16 fighter jets at Monte Real Air Base sustaining damage. The municipal stadium in Leiria also incurred severe structural harm. Initial estimates place the economic losses from the storm between €1.5 billion and €2 billion, making it one of the most financially destructive weather events in recent Portuguese history.

Government Mobilizes for Recovery

In response to the widespread devastation, the Portuguese government has approved a substantial €2.5 billion package of loans and incentives aimed at assisting individuals and businesses in the rebuilding process. A state of emergency was declared in numerous municipalities, particularly in the most affected central regions, to facilitate recovery efforts. Emergency teams, including the Special Civil Protection Force, have been deployed to assist with cleanup, road clearing, and the distribution of essential supplies like non-potable water in areas where regular services are still compromised.