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Portugal Safe and Security Report Thursday 8^th January 2026

 

Good afternoon everyone and welcome to our first weekly report of 2026.

In 2026, several measures adopted by the Government will come into effect, aligned with clear priorities in valuing work, social cohesion, and modernizing the State. We have selected the following which are relevant to our remit: 1. Control of illegal immigration and the integration of legal immigrants are strengthened within the framework of the structural reform of immigration policy; 2. The new rules for admission to the PSP (Public Security Police) come into effect, adjusting recruitment criteria to current needs, in order to strengthen public security; 3. Fifty infrastructure improvements for the PSP (Public Security Police) and GNR (National Republican Guard) have been completed, aimed at improving working conditions for officers and military personnel and strengthening the connection between security forces and the public; 4. The manufacture, modification, transport, purchase, possession, or operation of illegal speedboats is criminalized, and more effective sanctions and new penalties are created for criminals to address the growing sophistication of criminal networks, particularly those involved in drug and human trafficking; 5. The “Active Forest” program continues with the launch of new calls for proposals to support the active management and maintenance of forest areas, particularly on smallholdings, promoting resilience, biodiversity and forest enhancement, with a budget of 10 million euros.

An intense cold wave and snowfall is affecting several European countries, causing the closure of hundreds of schools, flight cancellations, disruption of public transport, and road accidents. France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, and Bosnia-Herzegovina are registering record low temperatures. Several European countries are being affected by cold weather including Portugal where temperatures dropped to below zero at 40 IPMA on-line weather stations at 0700 hrs yesterday morning with the lowest being minus -6.5C.

Unfortunately at the start of the year there were two shooting incidents, one in Lisbon and the other in Silves in the Algarve. On Saturday night, two hooded men fired dozens of shots at the facade of a house in Silves, in the Algarve, while a family with two minors was inside. The shooters have not yet been identified, and it is suspected that they used an automatic military weapon.  They arrived shortly before midnight, their faces covered, and fired dozens of shots at the facade of a house. The shots were captured by the surveillance camera of the house next door. This is being investigated by the Judicial Police.

The second incident refers to images circulating on social media of a group firing automatic and semi-automatic weapons during New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Alfredo Bensaúde neighbourhood, Olivais, Lisbon. Carlos Moedas Mayor of Lisbon, stated this Monday that situations like this, are “unacceptable”.  The Mayor was speaking after a restricted meeting of the Municipal Security Council, attended only by officers from the Municipal Police and the Lisbon Metropolitan Command of the PSP (Public Security Police), which also served to assess security in the capital. The mayor added that the PSP (Public Security Police) will be “more present and with more special crime prevention operations,” which will be “constantly and permanently increased” in the “coming weeks and months.” The mayor has called for an extra 500 PSP agents for Lisbon.

We are very concerned about what has happened particularly the availability of apparent military calibre weapons being used on the streets in Lisbon and Silves.

Given recent international developments, we support Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced yesterday (6th January 2025) that Portugal, together with its European partners, subscribes to the following declaration on Greenland: “Security in the Arctic remains a fundamental priority for Europe and is crucial for international and transatlantic security. NATO has made it clear that the Arctic region is a priority, and European Allies are strengthening their presence, activities, and investments to maintain Arctic security and deter adversaries. Greenland belongs to its people. It is up to Denmark and Greenland, and only to them, to decide on matters relating to Denmark and Greenland.”

We wish all our readers a Very Happy and Safe New Year

 

News

Lisbon Airport reinforced with 24 GNR (National Republican Guard) officers to reduce queues at arrivals.

Lisbon airport had already been reinforced with 80 PSP officers during the Christmas and New Year period due to long waiting times.

Lisbon airport is being reinforced this Tuesday with 24 members of the National Republican Guard (GNR), a measure by the Government to reduce waiting times in the arrivals area.

According to GNR spokesperson Carlos Canatário, who spoke to Lusa news agency, the 24 officers will work in “flexible shifts,” composed of teams of 10 members and a supervisor, and will be stationed in the arrivals area to check documentation.

The military personnel now reinforcing Lisbon airport have certified training in border control and received “purely administrative” training on Friday and Monday from the PSP (Public Security Police), the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC), and ANA (Aeroportos de Portugal).

For now, the GNR (National Republican Guard) added, it is unknown how long the military personnel will remain at Humberto Delgado Airport.

In addition to this measure to reduce queues, the Government has decided to suspend the European border control system for non-EU citizens, known as the European Union Entry/Exit System (EES), for three months at Lisbon airport, with the European Commission already stating that it will request “more details” from Portugal regarding this interruption.

Lisbon airport had already been reinforced with 80 PSP officers during the Christmas and New Year period due to long waiting times.

The new European border control system for non-EU citizens came into operation on October 12 in Portugal and the rest of the Schengen Area, and since then waiting times have worsened, especially at Lisbon airport, with passengers sometimes having to wait for several hours.

 

The bar that caught fire in Switzerland had not been inspected since 2020.

The mayor of Crans-Montana discovered “a failure to carry out periodic inspections” at the site between 2020 and 2025.

The bar at a ski resort in Crans-Mointanana, Switzerland, which caught fire during a New Year’s Eve party, killing 40 people, had not been inspected since 2020.

In a press conference this Tuesday, the mayor of Crans-Montana, Nicolas Feraud, said he “deeply regrets” discovering “a failure in carrying out periodic inspections” at the site between 2020 and 2025.

The last inspection report for Le Constellation, from 2019, did not mention any problems. The soundproof foam lining the bar ceiling was not considered a risk.

As a preventative measure to avoid this type of accident, ‘rocket’ candles have been banned in enclosed spaces, the mayor announced.

According to initial findings of the investigation, the fire that started on the ceiling of the room was likely ignited by sparks from these candles, which were placed in champagne bottles.

Authorities have closed another establishment run by the managers of Le Constellation, who, according to the Valais regional prosecutor, are suspected of involuntary manslaughter, involuntary bodily harm, and arson.

The French couple told the newspaper La Tribune de Genève that the establishment had been inspected three times in ten years and that “everything was in compliance with the regulations.”

 

 

 

 

Portugal Safety and Security Report New Year’s Eve Wednesday 31^st December 2025.

 

Good morning. Firstly we hope that you had a very happy and restful Christmas albeit the temperatures were rather on the cold side. But – more about the weather later.

After peak waiting times of up to seven hours at border control during the New Year’s week, the Government decided to suspend the application of the European border control system for non-EU citizens at Lisbon airport for three months. The decision includes the immediate reinforcement of security at Humberto Delgado Airport with GNR officers.

Lisbon Airport handles more than 70 % of the nation’s long-haul flights, and passenger numbers are forecast to jump 12 % over last December. Unlike previous years, officers must now capture and upload fingerprints, facial scans, passport data and a digital time-stamp for every non-EU passenger. Each step adds precious seconds; multiply by a full wide-body arrival and you get a two-hour bottleneck before breakfast.

Experts doubt a wholesale return to ink stamps will happen. Manual processing is slower, less secure and undermines the €1.3 B that EU states have invested in the system. Cyber-security advisers also warn that once a country reverts, synchronising the old and new databases becomes a nightmare. The likelier scenario, say union leaders, is a hybrid model during peaks: biometric gates for repeat visitors whose data are already on file, and human officers for first-timers

Portugal is not alone. France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Germany and even Iceland have reported wait-time spikes of up to 70 % since the EES went live on 12 October. Yet Lisbon’s single-runway layout and tight terminal footprint leave it less capable of absorbing snags. ACI Europe has already warned of “chaos” if the system stumbles during the twin peaks of 24–26 December which it has. The suspension of the system is allowed under what is known as the EES “kill switch” – a Commission-approved waiver that lets border guards revert to old-school passport stamps if waiting times top an unspecified red line.

On the roads this New Year’s Eve – The Christmas operation carried out by the PSP (Public Security Police) and GNR (National Republican Guard) recorded 15 fatalities and 1,444 injuries, 89 of which were serious, following 4,847 road accidents that occurred between December 18 and 26. Four less fatalities than last year but still far too many. In total, there are records of “around 300 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol. According to the GNR, the numbers are worrying [for the size of the country], but they are still lower than last year

Police will continue to be out and about to ensure drivers reach their destination safely so, DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE – This New Year, the focus is clear: alcohol and driving do not mix. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination – so no need to rush. GNR Advice is: if you are visiting festivals in cities such as Lisbon and Porto, note that there may be parking and road restrictions. Research beforehand and opt for public transport, taxi, UBER etc. Before starting the trip, check the condition of the vehicle, first of all, all your documentation. If you have consumed alcoholic beverages, do not drive, if you have any doubts, do not drive, do not use your mobile phone and always use your seatbelt. If you are visiting festivals in cities such as Lisbon and Porto, note that there may be parking and road restrictions. Research beforehand and opt for public transport, taxi, UBER etc. Before starting the trip, check the condition of the vehicle, first of all, all your documentation. Finally if you have consumed alcoholic beverages, do not drive, if you have any doubts, do not drive, do not use your mobile phone and always use your seatbelt.

Lastly turning to the New Year weather covering the festive period. STORM FRANCIS – is the name given by IPMA (Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere) to a low pressure system that, at 00UTC on January 1st, is forecasted to be centred north of the western group of the Azores archipelago, approximately at 39°N and 25°W, gradually deepening and moving east/southeast. Storm FRANCIS has associated fronts that will bring precipitation on January 1st and wind, sometimes strong and gusty, along the mainland coast and in the highlands. Temperatures should rise on this day, especially the minimum temperature, although still between 0 and -3°C in many inland locations in the North and Central regions.

There are many members of the emergency services, such as GNR, PSP, Civil Protection, Bombeiros and those in the health services who will be work overnight on New Year’s Eve away from their families. We thank them for all their amazing work in keeping us safe.

Our team at Safe Communities wish you a Safe and Very Happy New Year.

 

News

Flu vaccination campaign nears target of 2.5 million vaccinated

Another 14,066 people were vaccinated against the flu last week, bringing the total number immunized since the start of the campaign to 2,492,594, almost reaching the target set by the DGS (Directorate-General of Health) of around 2.5 million, according to data released today.

According to the latest report from the Seasonal Response in Health Surveillance and Monitoring of the Directorate-General of Health (DGS), relating to the week of December 15-21, there was a total increase in hospital emergency room visits (124,237, +1.9% compared to the previous week) and an increase in the proportion of emergency room visits due to acute respiratory infection (9.1%, +0.2 percentage points).

An increase was also observed in the proportion of emergency room visits due to flu-like symptoms (4.93%, +0.08 percentage points).

Health authorities have reinforced their appeal for vaccination due to the increase in acute respiratory infections and cases of influenza, which have led to a surge in demand for emergency services, the National Institute of Medical Emergency (INEM), and the National Health Service 24-hour helpline.

Data published in the DGS seasonal vaccination report indicate that influenza vaccination coverage in people over 85 years of age is at 86.74%, in the 80-84 age group it is at 77.88%, in the 70-79 age group it is at 74.21%, and in those over 65 years of age it is at 71.94%.

The main novelty of the 2025/2026 Seasonal Vaccination Campaign was the expansion of seasonal vaccination to all children aged 6 to 23 months, regardless of whether they are healthy or belong to risk groups.

Since the start of the seasonal vaccination campaign on September 23, 58,009 children aged between six and 23 months have been immunized, representing a vaccination coverage of 44.69%.

COVID-19 vaccination coverage is lower than that for influenza, reaching 59.06% in those over 85 years old, 47.74% among those aged 80 to 84, 42.83% among those aged 70 to 79, and 42.86% among those over 65.

The latest report from the Seasonal Response in Health Surveillance and Monitoring, relating to the week of December 15-21, 2025, shows that Portugal registers “an epidemic of influenza activity with an increasing trend”.

This week, there was an increase in the proportion of hospital emergency room visits for influenza cases in children under one year old (4.6%, +0.2 pp compared to the previous week) and in people aged 65 or older (21.5%; +1.5 percentage points compared to the previous week).

There was also an increase in the seven-day moving average of ward bed occupancy for all causes (80.9%) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) bed occupancy for all causes (72.1%)

The proportion of patients diagnosed with influenza admitted to ICUs, as reported by the Hospital Network for Clinical and Laboratory Surveillance in ICUs, decreased to 9%.

According to the DGS (Directorate-General of Health), overall mortality was higher than expected for this time of year, with excess mortality observed in the North and Central regions and in the age groups of 75 to 84 years and 85 years and over, respectively

 

Scheduled power outages on Sunday in areas of Greater Lisbon.

On the first Sunday of the year, some locations in three municipalities in the Lisbon region will be temporarily without electricity between 5:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The scheduled interruptions will affect specific parishes to allow for manoeuvres, connections, repairs, and maintenance of the electrical infrastructure.

Next Sunday, January 4th, some areas in the municipalities of Cascais, Loures, and Odivelas will be temporarily without electricity due to maintenance work, according to E-Redes .

The power outages, which will be “limited and specific” will occur in the following locations:

Parish of the Union of Parishes of Cascais and Estoril 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Alameda Duquesa De Palmela, Lugar Praia Duquesa, Paredão Leste, Passeio Marítimo

Parish of the Union of Parishes of Camarate, Unhos and Apelação 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Azinhaga Das Mós, Azinhaga Dos Cucos, Estrada Militar – Bairro Fonte Da Pipa, Fontainhas, Rua 31 De Outubro, Rua A, Rua Aristides De Sousa Mendes, Rua B Pt Fugido, Rua B Vl Cristina, Rua B Vl Lopes, Rua Das Fontaínhas, Rua Do Casal Dos Cucos, Rua Dos Sacrifícios, Rua José Capítulo, Rua Principal, Rua Vl Martins, Rua Vl Rodrigues, Vila Teles

Parish of the Union of Parishes of Póvoa de Santo Adrião and Olival Basto 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Cassapia Neighbourhood , Quinta dos Cucos Neighbourhood, Roldão Square, Quinta dos Cucos, Quinta dos Cucos , Rua 1 Vivenda JNP , Rua 1, Rua 1º de Maio – Cassapia Neighborhood , Rua 20 de Abril, Rua 3, Cassapia Street, Rua da Escola, Rua da Esperança, Main Street, Rua Pedro Nunes

“Always in a planned and controlled manner,” the work carried out by E-Redes “occurs when all available power supply alternatives are exhausted, in order to ensure that the impact on customers is as minimal as possible,” notes the electricity distribution network operator.

 

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 10^th December 2025

 

Good afternoon. On the eve of the General Strike there are already disruptions this Wednesday. Unions say that health, education, and transportation are expected to be the sectors most affected by Thursday’s general strike. There is one day left until the General Strike that threatens to paralyze the country, but the impact is already being felt this Wednesday, especially in the transport sector. Please see our first news item.

Yes Christmas is almost upon us and a time to celebrate with family and friends. However, criminals also like to celebrate in a rather different way! This can be through on-line scams or physical crime such as burglaries and other thefts.  This is the time of year when burglaries may increase. More often this is through “Opportunist crime” (crimes of opportunity) so it is preventable. The festive period is one of the busiest times of the year — but while many of us are away visiting friends and family, unoccupied homes can unfortunately attract unwanted attention.

If you are going away use smart plugs or light timers to turn lamps and Christmas lights on and off at realistic times. Avoid leaving the same light on constantly — varied lighting patterns give the impression that someone is at home. A TV simulator or a smart speaker playing low-level sound occasionally can also help create the sense of activity indoors. Before you go away ask someone you trust to keep watch. A trusted neighbour or friend can make your home look lived in by doing small but effective things while you’re away, such as: collecting post or parcels, moving bins on collection day, parking on your driveway occasionally or moving you own car. Small actions like these create the illusion of occupancy — one of the simplest and most effective deterrents.

It’s tempting to share your holiday countdown or airport selfies, but posting about your absence can unintentionally alert criminals that your home is, or will soon be, empty.  Wait until you return before posting travel updates or photos from your trip. Please read our Feature in The Resident newspaper out tomorrow 11^th December.

The GNR and PSP are already conducting their various crime prevention programs in the lead up to Christmas. During a meeting with GNR Faro Territorial District on 9^th December we discussed their main programs for Christmas and New year which focus on Safe Commerce, where they visit various stores concerning security of shops and traffic patrols especially over the holiday periods itself.

As far as scams there are several to be on the lookout for in the lead up to Christmas for example we are already seeing an increase in Portugal of on-line parcel delivery scams using the names of well-known couriers, such as CTT, DHL etc.     If you are expecting a delivery be particularly careful.  Do not click on any links in emails, open attachments or reply. These are mainly phishing emails where the fraudster is attempting to gain your personal information. Simply delete the email. Be aware any QR code embedded in an unsolicited email can be a scam. If you don’t know the sender, don’t scan the QR code.  If in doubt check with the company concerned but not using the contact details in the email.

Another are fake Charity scams. Unfortunately the number of fake charity scams are increasing tugging on your heart strings at this time of the year. Never click on a hyperlink in an email purportedly from a charity. Instead visit the charity’s website first by typing the address into your browser. Before you donate, check the website you are on is secure – the web address should begin with https:// (the “s” stands for “secure”) and look for the padlock symbol. It is very risky to respond to requests to donate through a money transfer company such as Western Union or MoneyGram.

With the increasing number of cases, the country has entered an epidemic phase of influenza, a scenario that is expected to worsen. In a press conference this Monday, the Minister of Health, Ana Paula Martins, acknowledged the challenge ahead, but assured that public health institutions are prepared. She also reinforced the appeal for vaccination of citizens who are part of priority groups.  Speaking directly from the Ministry of Health in Lisbon, Ana Paula Martins assured that health institutions are “prepared and coordinated” to give “the best possible response to the Portuguese people, from prevention to treatment.” She stated that currently “the Influenza AH3 virus is predominant,” with a new subtype that could have an increased impact on at-risk groups. Therefore, she warns: the next eight weeks “will be particularly demanding”.

Our team at Safe Communities wish you at nice week ahead.

News:

The general strike hasn’t started yet, but there are already disruptions this Wednesday.

Unions say that health, education, and transportation are expected to be the sectors most affected by Thursday’s general strike. There is one day left until the General Strike that threatens to paralyze the country, but the impact is already being felt this Wednesday, especially in the transport sector.

CP – Comboios de Portugal anticipates disruptions until Friday. In a statement, the company guarantees that it will reimburse or allow exchanges for those who have purchased tickets for Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, International, InterRegional and Regional services. Strike notice https://www.cp.pt/en/detalhe-aviso/greve-11-dez

Fertagus will have minimum services.

River connections between Lisbon and the south bank of the Tagus River will also be heavily affected by the general strike. Only a minimum service of 25% is planned during the most critical morning and afternoon hours.

Carris has already announced that it will only have 12 routes available.

In Porto, disruptions are expected on the metro. The situation is different in Lisbon’s metro, which is expected to be completely closed.

In the aviation sector, TAP has cancelled several flights and SATA will only operate nine connections between the autonomous regions and Lisbon and Porto.

In healthcare, staffing schedules identical to those on Sundays and holidays will be ensured. Minimum services will guarantee the operation of emergency rooms, urgent surgeries, hospitalizations, and intensive care units.

The UGT’s general secretary predicts a firm and determined response from workers. Unions say that health, education, and transport will be the sectors most affected.

 

 

General strike leads Air Europa to cancel flights and Iberia to reduce operations to Portugal.

Air Europa has cancelled all 16 of its flights to and from Portugal, while Iberia has reduced its scheduled connections by up to 75%, following the general strike called against labour law reform. TAP expects to operate only a third of its flights during the joint strike by the CGTP and UGT unions.

Iberia confirmed to the EFE news agency on Tuesday that it will cancel 75% of its flights to and from Porto via various Spanish airports, while the cancellation rate will be 50% for flights to and from Lisbon.

According to a statement from Air Europa, the company will suspend all sixteen of its flights to and from Portugal, all originating from and destined for Madrid-Barajas Airport, which had eight flights (four outbound and four return) to Lisbon and another eight to Porto.

Air Europa has informed affected passengers that they can change their travel dates free of charge between December 9th and 18th, change their route, request a voucher, or obtain a ticket refund.

Four aviation sector unions issued a joint statement on the same day expressing solidarity with Portuguese workers during Thursday’s general strike, while also criticizing the government’s draft labour reform proposal.

In a joint statement, the Civil Aviation Pilots Union (SPAC), the National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel (SNPVAC), the Aviation and Airport Workers Union (Sitava), and the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Union (Sitema) considered the Trabalho XXI draft bill to be “a civilizational setback.”

TAP’s CEO, Luís Rodrigues, assured on Tuesday that the company is prepared for the general strike scheduled for Thursday and expects to operate a third of its flights, with the main effort being to avoid affecting passengers.

 

 

PORTUGAL SAFETY AND SECURITY REPORT THURSDAY 4^TH DECEMBER 2025

 

Good morning everyone – Storm Claudia, which battered the country two weeks ago, raised the level of Algarve’s reservoirs by 5%, now guaranteeing four years of public water supply – the best record in the last ten years. However, despite the increase in surface reserves, the rain was not enough to reassure half of the region’s citrus growers, who remain dependent on aquifers in critical condition.

In Lobito, Silves, farmers haven’t needed to turn on their irrigation systems for almost a month. The orchards are showing vitality after the rains, but the relief will be short-lived. According to citrus grower José Moreira, the water accumulated in the soil isn’t enough to last more than a few days.

The president of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), José Pimenta Machado, confirms an unprecedented milestone with an example that the Funcho reservoir is at 80% capacity in November. Across the six reservoirs in the Algarve, we are at 72% capacity — the best situation in ten years.” The big problem is that the water brought by the storm did not infiltrate enough to replenish the water table, on which half of the Algarve’s citrus farms depend. José Moreira warns that “the water table is very low. It rained a lot, but most of it went into the sea. It was a sudden downpour and it didn’t seep through,” a situation endorsed by APA.

It is noticeable that during the drier days over the last week in the Algarve, many people are taking the opportunity to burning cut and piled waste. Although the fire risk is relatively low it is still important to inform the authorities beforehand, and when the risk is very high or maximum, seek authorisation. In burning cut and piled waste please ensure that you take safe precautions in particular: If possible burn on wet days or when humidity is high starting in the morning as the humidity is usually higher, avoid burning on a windy day, especially if it has a variable direction; have someone with you and have a mobile phone at hand, have a water supply close by, and ensure the fire is properly extinguished before retiring, cover with earth or use water will help.

Remember the person responsible for burning the piles cannot leave the place during the time in which it takes place and until it is duly extinguished and its effective extinction is guaranteed.

However, the weather at present is variable. And in the next few days the temperature will drop. The Directorate-General of Health (DGS) has recommended preventive measures in light of the cold weather forecast, especially in the North region, noting that there is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses, worsening of chronic conditions, and accidents. It is important to follow the recommendations, not only by wrapping up warm, but on the roads as well with IPMA forecasting icy and frost conditions. Please take extra care on the roads

Also with the cold weather there tends to be an increase in urban fires mainly residential buildings. These caused, in many cases, resulting from negligence or non-compliance with safety standards in the use of home equipment. Be aware that most of these fires can be prevented, by: Periodically checking the electrical and gas installations by; regularly cleaning chimneys and exhausts; keeping matches and lighters out of reach of children and avoiding using candles. Also do not overload electrical sockets; turn off appliances that are not in use from sockets and remove flammable objects and products from heat sources. Never smoke in bed or on the sofa if you feel tired or drowsiness.

Have a fire extinguisher at home and teach the whole family how to use it and install carbon monoxide detectors especially if you have a wood burning or gas heater.

Our team at Safe Communities wish you a safe week ahead.

 

Reservoirs in the Algarve have enough water for four years, but aquifers remain critical

Storm Claudia, which battered the country two weeks ago, raised the level of Algarve’s reservoirs by 5%, now guaranteeing four years of public water supply – the best record in the last ten years.

Despite the increase in surface reserves, the rain was not enough to reassure half of the region’s citrus growers, who remain dependent on aquifers in critical condition.

In Lobito, Silves, farmers haven’t needed to turn on their irrigation systems for almost a month. The orchards are showing vitality after the rains, but the relief will be short-lived. According to citrus grower José Moreira, the water accumulated in the soil isn’t enough to last more than a few days.

“The rain was wonderful, but we’ll definitely have to call next week. These fields are very dry and the trees will need it.”

Reservoir storage reaches record levels.

Despite the concerns of citrus growers in Silves, 10 kilometres from the orange groves, the Arade reservoir is approaching 60% of its capacity , after the Funcho reservoir — located upstream — began discharges that usually only occur after winter.

The president of the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA), José Pimenta Machado, confirms an unprecedented milestone:

“The Funcho reservoir is at 80% capacity in November. Across the six reservoirs in the Algarve, we are at 72% capacity — the best situation in ten years.”

Storm Claudia contributed 20 cubic hectometres of water, an increase equivalent to 5% of the region’s total storage capacity.

Just a year and a half ago, the Algarve had reserves for six to seven months of public water supply. Today, that guarantee extends to four years.

Aquifers however remain in crisis: 50% of citrus growers do not benefit from the rain.

The big problem is that the water brought by the storm did not infiltrate enough to replenish the water table, on which half of the Algarve’s citrus farms depend. José Moreira warns:

“The water table is very low. It rained a lot, but most of it went into the sea. It was a sudden downpour and it didn’t seep through.”

The APA confirms the concern. The Querença-Silves Aquifer, responsible for supplying 30 million cubic meters per year to farmers through 6,000 boreholes, has experienced a “very insignificant” recovery.

“There is a great asymmetry between the recovery of reservoirs and groundwater, which is much slower. More rain is needed to alleviate the restrictions on new water withdrawals,” explains José Pimenta Machado.

Citrus growers expect slower and more continuous rainfall in the winter.

Despite the historical record of surface water reserves, the drought in the Algarve is not yet over for those who depend on groundwater. The agricultural sector is waiting for winter—which hasn’t even started yet—to bring gentler and more prolonged rain, essential for replenishing the aquifers.

Until then, the region lives between two contrasting scenarios: dams as full as they haven’t been in a decade, and aquifers that are still depleted.

 

Food collection at Food Bank campaign falls by 2.8%.

The Food Bank’s Christmas campaign has ended, but you can still contribute through vouchers at supermarkets or on their online platform until December 7th.

The Food Bank received 60 tons less in this year’s Christmas campaign compared to last year. The campaign took place over the weekend, with 2,150 tons collected, according to a statement.

The collected food will be distributed starting next week to social solidarity institutions throughout the country, to then be delivered to approximately 380,000 people with food insecurity.

The Food Bank emphasized in the statement that, “in everyday life, there are still people who need help to eat, especially at a time like Christmas.”

“Having the family gathered around a table is a wish that each of us can help to fulfill,” the institution added.

Last year, the campaign managed to collect 2,213 tons of food. Despite this year’s shortfall, the president of the Portuguese Federation of Food Banks Against Hunger, Isabel Jonet, quoted in the statement, praised the “ever-present solidarity of the Portuguese people.”

” We cannot fail to highlight the role of the volunteers, people of all ages, with diverse political and religious convictions who, participating side-by-side, contribute in a fraternal and supportive way to a more just and cohesive society,” added Jonet.

This weekend’s in-person campaign involved approximately 42,000 volunteers in more than 2,000 commercial establishments across the country.

Until December 7th, it will continue to be possible to contribute to this cause through vouchers available in supermarkets or on the online platform at www.alimentestaideia.pt.

In 2024, the 21 Food Banks Against Hunger operating in Portugal distributed a total of 27.5 million kilograms of food, an average movement of 109 tons per working day, for an estimated total value exceeding 45 million euros.

 

December brings changes: (very) cold weather, rain, and even snowfall are coming.

Given the change in weather conditions, the Directorate-General of Health recommends preventive measures and reminds the public that there is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses and worsening of chronic conditions.

December has arrived, bringing with it a new change in the weather. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) forecasts cold weather across the mainland and rain in some northern regions of the country for the coming days. Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Porto are under a yellow weather warning.

“This is where the front may bring slightly more intense precipitation, in the late afternoon/early evening period today. Afterwards, the front will move further south and inland, but with less activity; it will rain, but without as much intensity, and it does not justify issuing a warning,” adds meteorologist Jorge Ponte, from IPMA.

Minimum temperatures will drop across the country, with those in the North expected to reach sub-zero levels.

“(…) in the higher altitude areas, temperatures will drop below freezing, hence the snowfall,” adds Jorge Pinto, noting that this can happen between 1,000 and 1,200 meters of altitude .

IPMA also warns of the disruption caused by snowfall, with accumulation and possible ice formation, in the districts of Guarda and Castelo Branco.

Improvements are only expected from next Wednesday, December 3rd, a day when a slight rise in temperature is forecast, but rain will still continue in the North and Central regions.

“The pattern for this week is somewhat like this: alternating periods of rain and showers, (…) it will always rain more in the North and Center than in the South,” concludes the meteorologist.

Due to the cold weather, the Directorate-General of Health (DGS) recommends preventive measures and reminds the public that cold weather increases the risk of respiratory illnesses and the worsening of chronic conditions.

“Soup is a fundamental element in hydration because it not only hydrates and warms you, but also because of the vitamins and antioxidants present in the vegetables,” advises João Ramos, a specialist in general and family medicine.

 

The DGS (Directorate-General of Health) also advises dressing in layers, wearing a hat, gloves and a scarf, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold.

 

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 26^th November 2025

We start our weekly report with two disturbing developments. The first of these involves the arrest of 11 volunteer firefighters from the Fundão Volunteer Firefighters Humanitarian Association who are suspected of having committed “two rape crimes and one sexual coercion,” the Judicial Police revealed on Tuesday. The victim is a 19-year-old firefighter subjected to an initiation ritual involving “violent sexual acts.” In a statement, the PJ (Judicial Police) states that the crimes were committed at two different times, inside the barracks in Fundão and Soalheira. The suspects include individuals with responsibilities in the corporation’s hierarchy, including a chief and a deputy chief. Among the evidence gathered are images from CCTV cameras and videos made during the initiation ritual, showing the alleged crimes being committed by the firefighters. However, the Commander says they will not be suspended from their duties!

This a terrible ordeal for the young firefighter concerned. It is important that those responsible are held to account for such despicable criminal acts. Regardless of the commanders decision, the judicial authority at the first hearing can set conditions in the application of coercive measures, that would effectively prohibit those arrested from carrying out their duties – such as being placed in custody – house arrest etc. Apart from this investigation by the Judicial Police, we would call for a wider inquiry should be conducted into whether there have been previous occasions where similar “initiations” have been held, whether in this corporation or others.

The second disturbing report involves the arrest of ten GNR and one PSP officer allegedly involved in a human trafficking network. The Judiciary Police is carrying out a large-scale operation in Beja, designated “Fair Harvest,” to dismantle an alleged human trafficking network. Approximately 300 PJ inspectors from Lisbon, Évora, and the Algarve are involved. Around 50 search warrants and 17 arrest warrants are being executed in Beja, Portalegre, Figueira da Foz, and Porto. The crimes under investigation are aiding illegal immigration, forgery, tax fraud, and money laundering.

Those arrested are expected to begin being questioned this Wednesday at the Central Criminal Court in Lisbon, according to the Lusa news agency. The National Republican Guard (GNR) says there is no place in that structure for military personnel who corrupt the honour and ethics of the guard. The military force says it repudiates acts that call into question dignity and human rights.

Turning to wildfires a report recently released by the OECD into the 2024 and 2025 wildfires in Portugal revealed “coordination failures” between the different forces on the ground, causing delays in response time and increasing their spread..

“Coordination failures between different forces delay response time to fires and increase their spread. The creation of forest firefighting forces in Portugal reinforced the rapid response to fires in forest areas. However, it also contributed to unclear command structures between civil protection, volunteer, and forest firefighting forces,” concludes the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in the report “Towards Integrated Management of Rural Fires in Portugal,” which Lusa had access to. The preliminary conclusions of this project, funded by the European Union and carried out in collaboration with the Agency for Integrated Rural Fire Management (AGIF), were presented by OECD technicians to Portuguese members of parliament in the Assembly of the Republic.

For the country to create “a stronger institutional framework,” the OECD recommends clarifying the roles and command structures among firefighters and strengthening their capacity. The organization also proposes the development of “a long-term financing strategy for forest fires, in order to increase the efficiency of expenditure on forest fire management.”

Our team wish you a safe and happy week ahead.

News

Food Bank holds another food drive this weekend.

The Food Bank against Hunger (BA) will hold a new food collection campaign in 2,000 stores, with the help of more than 41,000 volunteers, next weekend, the organization announced today.

In a statement, BA explains that “this solidarity action, well known to the Portuguese people,” is an “invitation to share food with those who need it most, so that they can have a more dignified life.”

“The mechanics of participating in the campaign are simple and well known to the Portuguese: during the weekend of November 29th and 30th, simply accept the invitation from one of the more than 41,000 volunteers, distributed across more than 2,000 stores, place non-perishable food products (milk, canned goods, olive oil, sugar, flour, pasta) in the Food Bank bag and share them with those who need them most,” the statement reads.

The campaign, which runs until December 7th through the website www.alimentestaideia.pt and the purchase of product vouchers available at supermarket checkouts, “calls for participation in this real social network that is renewed to help bring food to those in need with food donations.”

Quoted in the statement, the president of the Portuguese Federation of Food Banks Against Hunger, Isabel Jonet, explains that the donated products will then be sent to the warehouses of the 21 Food Banks from north to south of the country, where they are weighed, sorted and packaged.

“The proceeds are distributed locally to people with food insecurity through more than 2,400 social solidarity institutions, previously selected and monitored in their daily activities,” the official stated.

According to available information, the 21 Food Banks distributed 27,448 tons of food last year (with an estimated value of 45 million euros) to 2,400 institutions, delivering the food to nearly 380,000 people with proven food needs, in the form of food baskets or prepared meals.

The Food Bank was created in Portugal in 1991 with the mission of fighting food waste and distributing support to those who most need food, in partnership with solidarity institutions and based on volunteer work.

There are currently 21 Food Banks (in the areas of Abrantes, Algarve, Aveiro, Beja, Braga, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Cova da Beira, Évora, Leiria-Fátima, Lisbon, Madeira, West Zone, Portalegre, Porto, São Miguel, Santarém, Setúbal, Terceira, Viana do Castelo and Viseu).

Phone fraud using AI-generated voices is skyrocketing.

The number of scams using automated calls more than doubled by 2025. The use of artificial intelligence in voice cloning has made the schemes increasingly difficult to detect.

Scammers create urgent situations, claim problems with bank accounts or cryptocurrency wallets, and suggest immediate transfers to accounts controlled by criminals. Telephone fraud is becoming more sophisticated. In the Netherlands, the office responsible for combating fraud says that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is causing more and more people to be deceived.

“People are called from an unknown number and, if they answer, they receive a proposal or instructions that seem legitimate.”

In 2024, approximately five thousand complaints of this type of fraud were registered. By 2025, that number had already surpassed twelve thousand. And the financial impact had also increased significantly.

AI technology is being used to clone voices with alarming accuracy. Wouter van Dongen, founder of DongIT, a cybersecurity company, says that even experts are having difficulty distinguishing the real from the fake. AI systems are able to hold realistic conversations, responding coherently to human interactions.

“Personally, I can still tell the difference, but some people can’t. The voices are becoming increasingly credible. If you respond in a certain way, the AI ​​will also respond appropriately.”

According to experts, the only way to protect yourself is to stay informed and, if in doubt, end the call immediately. Awareness is the best defense against this new generation of digital fraud.

 

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 12^th November 2025

Good afternoon everyone. In terms of climate change an important event is taking place in Brazil – COP 30. Specifically Portugal is one of the signatory countries of the “Call to Action on Integrated Fire Management and Wildfire Resilience”, approved within the framework of the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30) , which is taking place in Belém do Pará, Brazil.

In the commitment “Call to Action on Integrated Fire Management and Forest Fire Resilience,” the signatories acknowledge that wildfires are one of the most dramatic manifestations of climate change, affecting all States equally and constituting a challenge that “no country is capable of facing alone.” COP 30 reinforces “our shared commitment in scaling up Integrated Fire Management (IFM). Of the 10 main provisions the following two stand out as very relevant and necessary in addressing some of these important issues.

Firstly is a commitment to promote a global transition from reactive fire suppression toward proactive, prevention-driven, inclusive and ecological fire management strategies that strengthen adaptation and contribute to mitigation, protect biodiversity and combat desertification, through risk-informed planning and implementation covering the entire fire cycle (prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and ecological use of fire). In Portugal we have seen a dramatic change in this direction over the last five years from the high percentage of budget previously being spent on suppression of fires, to prevention.

Strengthening international Cooperation: prevent, fight and recover from wildfires by taking integrated action to reduce the incidence and negative impacts of wildfires and ensure our readiness to help each other and our partners; this includes enhancing collaboration across borders and institutions, consistent with the UNFCCC’s call for the widest possible cooperation, by, where relevant, and consistent with international legal frameworks, sharing technologies, expertise, and resources, and by enhancing interoperability, including developing common protocols for emergency coordination, capacity development, and regional fire governance, in line with the nature of fires and responses associated with them, as well as work under the FAO-hosted Global Fire Management Hub.

Black Friday which this year is 28^th November is approaching, but in reality the sales have already started in the shops and on-line. Black Friday period is one of those that registers the greatest increase in digital scams, especially phishing scams. In this type of scam, criminals clone pages of well-known stores and create fake websites to steal data or money from consumers.

The last two years have seen the emergence of AI (Artificial Intelligence) used by criminals, which is making holiday shopping scams increasingly difficult to spot. Scammers use machine learning to analyse consumer behaviour, crafting targeted attacks that exploit urgency and trust. For instance, fake online stores pop up overnight, offering unbelievable discounts on hot items, only to vanish after collecting payment and personal data. Safe Communities has prepared a feature in this week’s Portugal Resident (out tomorrow) which explains what has changed and advice on how to spot AL generated scams. If you intend to purchase goods on-line I suggest you study this first.

Yet another storm is approaching and that is Storm Claudia now starting to effect Madeira.

The ANEPC have issued a warning to the population which advises people to take special care when driving and staying near tree-lined areas, being aware of the possibility of falling branches and trees due to stronger winds. Also to be extra careful when driving near the coast and riverfront areas historically more vulnerable to floodwaters coastlines, avoiding traffic and staying in these places. The full advice can be found on our Facebook page yesterday and on our website in English here: https://www.safecommunitiesportugal.com/current-anpc-weather-warning-to-the-population-2/

Please follow the IPMA weather warnings and ANEPC advice and have a safe week ahead.

News:

Healthcare professionals set an example after appeal for blood donations.

There is a risk of blood shortages in hospitals because reserves are below normal. The situation is not yet considered critical, but authorities are again asking the public for help. In hospitals like the one in Braga, healthcare professionals themselves are setting an example.

The appeal from the Portuguese Federation of Voluntary Blood Donors (FEPODABES) resonated even within its own walls. Joana, who works at the Braga Local Health Unit, heard the requests and wanted to donate blood for the first time.

“We were having a coffee chat, our boss spoke up and emphasized the need for blood donation, and I said that I had never donated before and that I would like to do so. She took the opportunity to invite me to become part of this great family that is blood donors,” the professional told SIC.

But it wasn’t the only one. The drop in reserves happens every year around this time. And to prevent the situation from becoming critical, the appeals are repeated.

Aldara Braga, clinical director of the ULS of Braga, states that “there are some unforeseen circumstances that lead to donors being a little less frequent at this time of year ,” due to “infectious incidents.” Work-related issues can also impact donation, and therefore, “the appeal is always, always, always relevant.”

Thanks to the increased donations in recent days, reserves have already begun to improve, and the appeal is nationwide. This appeal has also come from the Portuguese Federation of Donors, which warns of some obstacles that continue to hinder the process.

“Many hospitals that collect blood today have a schedule that makes us very apprehensive, which is closing at three or four in the afternoon. And then we don’t have enough professionals to collect as many blood samples as are needed, which causes the blood supply to decrease,” says Alberto Mota. 

From the ground to the sky: International Hot Air Balloon Festival returns with colors and night time magic.

The event includes daytime flights near the Benavila dam in Avis, and the ‘Night Glow’ night time show in Ponte de Sor, transforming the region’s skies into a palette of vibrant colors.

These days, the Alentejo sky is filled with balloons. The International Hot Air Balloon Festival is taking place in that region until the 13th.

Everything was ready for another day of the festival. It dawned gray, but with safety conditions that allowed for flying, and that increased the anticipation and anxiety.

Still on the ground, next to the Benavila dam in Avis, the colours of the balloon tarpaulins painted the banks of the reservoir. There are 33 pilots of six different nationalities: some come for a mission, others for the scenery, but all for the passion of flying.

The palette of colours invaded the skies of Alentejo, and the anxiety of before gave way to a calm that, during the flight, is only interrupted by the flares.

And the images did not disappoint. Despite the grey weather, once up here it’s desirable to land, and if it’s done with some subtlety, all the better.

The thing is, this ballooning business isn’t exactly an exact science, except in the construction. Many of the balloons that have flown at the festival are manufactured in Madrid, in the only factory on the Iberian Peninsula and one of the few in Europe.

At night, the magic happens again in the skies of Alentejo, this time in Ponte de Sor, with the Night Glow show.

The International Hot Air Balloon Festival is in the air until the 13th. You can check the program on the organization’s website or try your luck and look up at the sky.

 

Portugal Safety and Security Report Wednesday 22^nd October 2025

Good afternoon. We start this weekly report with the excellent work being undertaken both by the PSP and GNR. The first is the arrest of seven people during a mega-operation that culminated in the seizure of 5.8 tons of hashish. This is the largest amount of drugs ever seized by the PSP, with an estimated value of over several million euros, this police force announced in the final balance sheet.

Also seized were 580,000 euros in cash, 10 vehicles, 21 cell phones, two satellite phones, two automatic weapons, five pistols, a shotgun, a revolver, three electric weapons, around 500 rounds of ammunition of various calibres, two speedboats, six boats, 21 high-powered engines, six luxury watches, around 15,000 litres of gasoline, video surveillance systems (CCTV), solar panels and communication inhibitors, the PSP announced this Tuesday.

The investigation, which lasted eight months , revealed that the network used drug storage facilities located in strategic areas to facilitate transport by sea, “also possessing weapons, communication equipment and logistical support, which demonstrate a high degree of sophistication and danger”, said the PSP. We congratulate the PSP for their professionalism, and coordination in undertaking such a thorough investigation and well planned and successful operation. Clearly it was a dangerous operation given the type of weapons seized. Well done!

The second, this time by the GNR involves the arrest of two suspects for more than one hundred thefts of non-precious metals from electric vehicle charging stations in the districts of Santarém, Setúbal, Leiria, Lisbon, and Évora. Two of the establishments are located in the Óbidos area.

The investigation had been ongoing for about a month and after the suspects were identified, the Santarém Territorial Command of the GNR executed two arrest warrants and carried out three searches (two at homes and one at a waste management operator).The operation, carried out with the support of the GNR Territorial Commands of Setúbal, Leiria, Lisbon and Évora and the PSP, allowed the seizure of electric charging cables, electric cable dismantling machinery, material from dismantling, cutting shears and protective material, documents related to transactions of non-precious metals and computer equipment and a motor vehicle.

The following case in Alcobaça involves the arrest of two people for fraud, document forgery, possession of prohibited weapons, and misuse of name, emblem, or uniform. The GNR Leiria Territorial Command, through the Criminal Investigation Unit (NIC) in Caldas da Rainha,on, October 20, arrested a man and a woman, aged 37 and 41, in the town of Benedita, in the municipality of Alcobaça.

As part of a criminal investigation that has been ongoing for approximately four months. The GNR officers executed three search warrants: one at a residence and two at a vehicle. Following the operation, two security searches were also conducted on the suspects, resulting in arrests and the seizure of an extensive range of items belonging to the GNR and PSP. The reason why the two arrested should have such a large range of items, has not been disclosed, although the word “misuse” indicates that the suspects were, using, or planning to use, the items, in order to approach members of the public pretending to be police officers

Despite this there are reports in the media that there is public concern that the use of violence in crime is increasing certainly in Lisbon, although the Minister of Internal Administration commented when asked, that “perception does not always reflect reality”. She acknowledged however that, “there is indeed some increase in violent crime, but not as much as the media reports,” argues the Minister of Internal Affairs, Maria Lúcia Amaral. Last week, police recorded five cases of people being shot. In particular, a man was admitted to Amadora-Sintra Hospital in the early hours of Monday morning with gunshot wounds to the knee, after another young man was also left outside the same hospital last Sunday with abdominal injuries.

However, this perception of insecurity was certainly not improved, with the attack yesterday by a person using a sharp weapon at the facilities of the Picapau Association, a drug addiction treatment centre located in Almoster, (not in Lisbon) but in the municipality of Santarém. Two of the victims, who were in serious condition, were transported to Santarém Hospital, while the others were assessed on site by emergency teams. More details are not known at present.

Our team wishes you all the best for the week ahead

News

The European Anti-Torture Committee calls on Portuguese authorities to “completely eradicate” physical abuse by police, adding that complaints continue despite progress made in recent years.

In the report released this Tuesday (October 21) on a visit to Portugal in 2024, the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) states that it observed “a decrease” in allegations of ill-treatment by law enforcement officials compared to previous visits to the country”, and that measures were also taken by the Portuguese authorities to address this issue.

However, it highlights that “concerns continue to exist,” having received several allegations of physical mistreatment by Portuguese police, including “excessive use of force during detention.”

“The alleged mistreatment consisted primarily of punches, kicks to the body and/or head and, occasionally, the use of batons,” the document states.

The complaints also included being thrown against a wall, pressure on the head with a foot or on the neck with a knee or baton, “despite the detainees having already been controlled,” the rapporteurs write, also reporting reports of verbal threats and acts of humiliation.

The document makes reference to the need to ensure medical care and better reporting of injuries.

“The Portuguese authorities must remain vigilant and continue their efforts, in line with a zero-tolerance policy, to completely eradicate police mistreatment. They must, in particular, improve reporting of such cases, both internally and to the competent investigative bodies, and provide adequate training to law enforcement officials,” recommend the experts from the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman Treatment.

The Committee expressed “deep concern about persistent failures in the response of the Portuguese criminal justice system,” which it said poses a risk to trust in the Portuguese authorities.

“Regarding access to a lawyer, this right does not appear to be guaranteed to people in police custody in all cases, from the beginning of the deprivation of liberty,” the report’s authors noted.

“The CPT continued to note omissions on the part of prison establishments, as well as the General Inspectorate of Internal Administration (IGAI) and the General Inspectorate of Justice Services, in communicating possible cases of mistreatment by law enforcement officials to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, as well as cases in which allegations or information indicating mistreatment were not responded to, or were responded to insufficiently quickly, by this service,” the document adds.

The committee also highlighted the need to improve communication and information sharing between criminal and disciplinary investigation bodies, especially in cases where disciplinary and criminal proceedings run in parallel.

The authors of the documents also request that agents be identified during operations and dispute the fact that some agents cover their faces.

The Committee for the Prevention of Torture also recommends that authorities implement the use of body cameras , a measure that, the report’s authors emphasize, offers additional protection against the “risk of excessive use and other forms of treatment, also guaranteeing protection [for officers] against any allegations of ill-treatment.”