Portugal has released several million cubic meters of water from dams after the deadly Atlantic storm Kristin, as persistent heavy rains continue to threaten the country. Authorities report widespread flooding, destroyed infrastructure and significant damage.
Portuguese authorities released large amounts of water from overcrowded dams after the deadly Atlantic storm Kristin. However, the country is preparing for more heavy rains. TASR writes about it based on a report from the DPA agency.
In two days, approximately 500 million cubic meters of water were released into rivers in Portugal, state television RTP reported, citing the national environmental agency. This amount corresponds to the consumption of the wider Lisbon area with three million inhabitants in three years. Almost all rivers in the country are flooded and meteorologists warn of further worsening of the weather in the coming days.
Loss of life
The Atlantic storm hit the coast of the Iberian Peninsula on Wednesday, with wind speeds exceeding 170 kilometers per hour. Authorities say at least eight people have died in the storm, with hundreds more injured in rescue and cleanup efforts.
Due to persistent adverse weather conditions, the government has extended the state of emergency for the entire territory of the country until Sunday, when the second round of presidential elections is to be held. The soil in many areas is already saturated and can absorb almost no additional water.
Flooding and warnings
Both road and rail transport are disrupted in several regions due to flooding and landslides. On the coast, the orange level of warning applies, i.e. the second highest, for strong winds and high waves.
Between midnight and Monday morning alone, the National Office for Emergencies and Civil Protection (ANEPC) recorded more than 260 exits related to the aftermath of the storm, most of them around Lisbon and in the Tagus River Valley. According to the state news agency Lusa, the most common reasons were downed trees, flooding, damaged buildings and landslides.
