Unions and national outlets report that all six medical emergency ambulances in the Algarve were taken out of service due to lack of staff, affecting units in Portimão, Alcantarilha, Quarteira (two), Faro and Olhão. The Sindicato dos Técnicos de Emergência Pré‑Hospitalar (STEPH) warned the stoppage — described as the worst since 2013 — and union leaders have welcomed government reinforcements while urging worker mobilisations from the North and Centre to fill gaps. For residents and visitors this raises the risk of slower ambulance response times in the region; keep local emergency contacts handy and verify nearest hospital capabilities.