More than 200 flights were cancelled across Portugal on November 11, 2026, as Storm Charles made landfall, prompting the closure of schools and hundreds of supermarkets and other businesses nationwide. The Portuguese government placed all emergency services and army units on alert and suspended non-essential public services in anticipation of the storm.
Storm Charles Landfall and Weather Conditions
Storm Charles reached southern Portugal and the Lisbon area during late afternoon on November 11, 2026, bringing heavy downpours and gale-force winds. Portugal’s weather agency, IPMA, reported that the storm’s eye split into two over the Atlantic, weakening the system before it arrived in the Algarve region. Despite
this weakening, the storm caused significant disruptions and prompted authorities to maintain a high state of alert.
Since midnight on November 11, Portuguese Civil Protection documented 538 incidents linked to the storm, including flooded roads and infrastructure damage. Commander Mario Silvestre confirmed that flash floods, strong winds, and rough seas remained serious concerns as emergency teams managed the situation.
Impacts on Madeira and Lisbon Infrastructure
Storm Charles previously passed over the Madeira archipelago, causing flood-related issues and uprooting trees. Emergency responders rescued a man who was swept away by floodwaters that inundated his garage on Madeira island. No casualties were reported in Portugal or Madeira as
of November 11.
The heavy rainfall caused flooding in Lisbon, leading to the closure of nearly all road tunnels within the city, further limiting urban travel. This infrastructure impact added to the challenges faced by commuters and emergency services during the storm.
Preceding Storm Bruna and Cross-Border Effects
Storm Charles followed on the heels of Storm Bruna, which has affected Portugal and Spain with persistent heavy rains since November 8, 2026, causing flooding in both countries. The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET issued warnings for southwestern Spain regarding the expected severe impacts of Storm Charles, including heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas.
In central Spain, the
evacuation of over 3,000 residents from Piedralaves remained in effect on November 11 due to the threat of a dam overflow. Authorities cautioned about intensifying rainfall in the area from midday onward, as the region braced for the storm’s impact.
Government Response and Official Advisories
In response to Storm Charles, the Portuguese government preemptively activated all emergency and military units, cancelled classes across the country, and shut down non-essential public services. Citizens were advised to remain indoors to reduce risks from flooding and high winds. This quick mobilization followed earlier government criticisms over delayed responses to storms in January and February 2026.
Authorities, including Civil
Protection Commander Mario Silvestre, maintained heightened alert levels for flash flooding, wind damage, and dangerous sea conditions throughout November 11 as the storm progressed across the region.
