Portugal faces climate risks and warmer winter forecasts

Meteorological forecasts for Portugal indicate a trend toward a milder winter, with the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) predicting average temperatures between 0.5 ºC and 1.5 ºC above normal for mainland Portugal during November, December, and January. While precipitation levels may also exceed averages in several regions, experts note that it remains uncertain whether the country will face a succession of intense storms similar to previous seasons.

In light of extreme weather events like Storm Kristin, consumer advocacy group DECO is calling for enhanced protections against climate-related emergencies. The organization highlighted significant gaps in insurance coverage, noting that many consumers lack protection for natural phenomena in multi-risk or automobile policies. DECO has also criticized insurance companies for allegedly refusing indemnities by citing “normal wear and tear” on properties. To address these vulnerabilities, the group is advocating for the creation of a mandatory Catastrophe Fund for insurers to cover seismic and climate risks.