The IPMA acknowledges that Kristin “may have been the strongest storm” since records began. For the coming days, the outlook remains for heavy rain — but not with the strength of this low-pressure system.
Kristin may have been the strongest storm on record
Saturday, 31 January 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
Aviso amarelo (yellow warning) is the second level in Portugal's weather-alert system issued by the Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA) to signal potentially dangerous conditions like heavy snow or rough seas. When districts are under aviso amarelo, expect travel disruption and take precautions—drivers, boaters and coastal residents in the affected areas should be especially alert.
An orange warning from the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera) signals potentially dangerous weather or sea conditions that could cause significant damage or risk to life; it is one level below the highest red warning. For the coast, an orange alert (for example waves of 5–5.5 metres) means people should avoid sea activities, follow local authority advice and expect disruptions to maritime transport.
A red warning is the highest alert level issued by Portugal's weather agency, the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera or IPMA), used when conditions pose a very high risk to life and property. Under a red warning authorities may close roads, suspend transport and advise people to avoid coastal and flood‑prone areas, so follow civil protection instructions during the Friday–Saturday storm period.
Storm Kristin is a named storm that recently hit parts of Portugal, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that caused roof collapses, flooding and other damage. Local authorities have issued safety warnings and emergency responses; residents should follow civil protection advice, avoid damaged buildings and stay away from flooded areas.
A meteorological depression is a low-pressure weather system that brings unsettled conditions such as strong winds, persistent rain, rough seas and sometimes snow. In Portugal the national weather agency IPMA (Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere, Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera) issues warnings for depressions because they can cause travel disruption, flooding and power outages.
