Braga, Castelo Branco, Guarda, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real and Viseu are on orange alert for snowfall. Access routes to the Serra da Estrela are closed.
Winter begins with snowfall, rough seas and an orange warning in 11 districts
Sunday, 21 December 2025RSS
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.
