The Lisboeta

Storm Ingrid brings snow, red alerts and massive waves

Thursday, 22 January 2026AI summary
Storm Ingrid brings snow, red alerts and massive waves

Depression Ingrid is moving over Portugal from Thursday afternoon, bringing heavy rain, snow inland and coastal waves reported up to 15 metres; media note that IPMA issued red warnings for affected coastal districts including Porto and Braga. Outlets describe coastal and northern districts as the main areas of impact and warn of travel and local service disruptions. Those with travel plans or who live in the north or on the coast should follow local emergency guidance and check transport updates.

Update: Five districts on red warning from midnight Friday

IPMA (the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere) placed Braga, Porto, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real and Viseu under a red warning for snow starting at 00:00 on Friday; reports also say the depression will bring heavy rain, strong winds and maritime agitation through the weekend and that Monchique in the Algarve could see snow in higher areas.

Context & Explainers

An IPMA red warning is the highest-level weather alert issued by the IPMA (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera) for extreme events such as very intense storms, heavy rain or dangerous coastal conditions. It signals serious risk to life and property and usually leads to strong safety measures, travel disruptions and instructions from local authorities — check forecasts and follow official advice.

What is IPMA?

IPMA is the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera), the national agency for weather, marine forecasts and climate monitoring. Residents should watch its forecasts and warnings during storms, heatwaves or cold snaps because IPMA issues official advisories used by services, transport operators and local authorities.

The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera or IPMA) is the national agency that produces weather, ocean and climate forecasts and issues warnings such as the red snow alert for specific districts. Travelers and residents should check IPMA bulletins for safety information before going out in bad weather.

Sources (5)

Continue reading