The Atlantic cyclone "Kristin" hit Portugal, causing catastrophic consequences, especially in the central and northern parts of the country, according to information from the BBC.
According to the latest data, the hurricane claimed the lives of at least five people, and hundreds of thousands of citizens were left without electricity. The storm led to flooding, landslides, and severe damage.
In some cities, wind speeds reached nearly 150 kilometers per hour. Portuguese authorities described this storm as an "extreme weather event," which prompted the closure of educational institutions, damage to buildings, and serious disruptions in the transportation system.
According to the civil protection service, more than 3000 various incidents have been recorded across the country. Several people were injured due to falling trees and debris.
The strongest wind gusts were recorded at the Monte Real airbase in the central Leiria district, reaching up to 178 km/h, after which the measuring equipment was destroyed.
According to the energy company E-Redes, on Wednesday more than 850,000 people were left without electricity.
Transportation across the country was disrupted: roads, including the main highway connecting Lisbon with the north, as well as railway tracks were blocked by trees and debris.
Local authorities urged residents of the cities of Coimbra and Leiria to stay home.
In the coastal town of Figueira da Foz, a Ferris wheel overturned, and several cars were damaged as the wind tore off part of a building's roof.
