Batalha leaders address recovery from Storm Kristin

During the celebrations for Batalha Municipality Day, local and national leaders addressed the ongoing recovery from Storm Kristin, which caused significant destruction to homes, forests, and infrastructure earlier this year.

Mayor André Sousa emphasized the resilience of the community, stating that while the storm forced a shift in priorities and resources, the municipality’s long-term projects remain intact. He noted that the disaster highlighted the importance of local solidarity and the deep roots of the community.

President António José Seguro used the occasion to criticize the state's lack of preparedness for such extreme weather events, noting that winds reached 200 kilometers per hour. He called for a more agile and decentralized state to improve decision-making during crises. Seguro also announced plans to present a report containing preventive measures to better face future storms, addressing issues such as the slow response from insurance companies, communication networks, and electrical grids.