Santa Maria Island hit by landslides and road closures due to heavy rain

Heavy rainfall in the Azores has caused landslides, road obstructions, and overflowing streams on Santa Maria Island. According to Bárbara Chaves, the Mayor of Vila do Porto, no injuries or displaced persons have been reported.

Local municipal services, firefighters, Civil Protection, and government departments are currently deployed to clear roads and clean streams. While one residence was reported flooded, the situation has since been resolved. Authorities have advised the population to avoid unnecessary travel while clearing operations continue.

The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a yellow weather warning for Santa Maria and São Miguel islands, citing forecasts of occasionally heavy precipitation and possible thunderstorms.