Provedoria de Justiça reviews response to Storm Kristin

The Portuguese Ombudsman (Provedoria de Justiça) has released two thematic reports evaluating the state's response to Storm Kristin and the 2025 rural fires. The reports aim to strengthen state preparedness, institutional coordination, and the protection of fundamental rights during catastrophes.

Regarding Storm Kristin, which caused significant human, social, and economic damage—particularly in the municipalities of Leiria, Marinha Grande, and Pombal—the Ombudsman noted that while extraordinary reconstruction support regimes were effective, they were hindered by complex administrative procedures and difficulties in inter-entity coordination. The institution highlighted that many constraints arose from the need to build solutions while measures were already being executed.

To improve future responses, the Ombudsman recommends establishing an integrated framework for disaster management, a single digital platform, and a dedicated fund for natural and seismic disasters. This proposed fund would include a mandatory insurance system for homes and business infrastructure, supplemented by public support for vulnerable families.