Portugal: Storm Elsa leaves two dead in Montijo, Castro Daire December 21

Event

Storm Elsa struck Portugal on Wednesday, December 18, leaving two dead and causing significant flooding, infrastructure damage, and power disruptions as of Saturday, December 21. On Thursday, December 19, one man was killed in Montijo, near Lisbon, when a tree fell on his car, and a second man was killed when his house collapsed in Castro Daire. Elsa has caused significant infrastructure damage countrywide and thousands were reportedly without electricity as of Friday, December 20. On Saturday, more than 250 people were evacuated in central Portugal due to dangers from rising floodwaters.

Further power, transportation, and business disruptions and possible evacuation orders are expected over the near term.  

Advice

Individuals in Portugal are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.