After five depressions have caused 16 deaths and significant destruction, forecasts predict that heavy rainfall will persist across the territory, particularly affecting the northern regions. Six districts, including Viseu, Porto, Vila Real, Viana do Castelo, Aveiro, and Braga, are under an orange alert due to expected persistent and heavy rain, as announced by the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).
Bad weather continues: heavy rain puts the North and Centre under orange alert today
Tuesday, 10 February 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
An orange warning is the second-highest level in IPMA's four-tier color-coded weather alert system (green → yellow → orange → red). It signals potentially dangerous weather or sea conditions that could cause significant damage or pose a risk to life.
Orange warnings are issued for conditions such as heavy rainfall, strong winds (gusts above 100 km/h), extreme heat, significant snowfall, or high waves (typically 5+ meters). They are district-specific and time-limited.
When an orange warning is active, residents should avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from coastal areas and riverbanks, secure outdoor objects, and follow guidance from civil protection authorities. Schools and transport services may be affected. Orange warnings often trigger preventive measures by local councils and civil protection services.
