A large majority of Portuguese citizens believe the country is not adequately prepared to face extreme weather events, according to new data that reflects growing public concern following a series of severe storms.
The findings, published the Lusophony Barometer in a study conducted the research institute Ipespe, reveal that 83 percent of respondents do not consider Portugal capable of effectively handling extreme weather phenomena such as powerful storms, heavy rainfall and related disruptions.
The perception comes after weeks of adverse weather that have affected several regions across the country. Recent storms have caused flooding, fallen trees, power outages and significant disruptions to transport and water services. In some areas, infrastructure damage and road closures have compounded the impact on local communities and businesses.
The study suggests that repeated exposure to such events has shaped public opinion, reinforcing the belief that institutional responses may not be sufficient to manage escalating climate risks. Antonio Lavareda, political scientist and director of Ipespe, explained that the recurrence of extreme weather events has influenced the public’s critical view.
According to Lavareda, when extreme phenomena occur repeatedly and produce visible effects on daily life, perceptions of institutional vulnerability tend to become entrenched. He noted that this dynamic persists regardless of official commitments or measures announced authorities to strengthen preparedness.
Portugal has experienced a pattern of increasingly intense weather episodes in recent years, consistent with broader climate trends observed across southern Europe. Heavy rainfall combined with strong winds has led to flash floods in urban centres, particularly in low lying areas with drainage limitations. Emergency services and Civil Protection authorities have been mobilised multiple times during the recent storm cycle to assist affected residents and restore essential services.
Despite these operational responses, the survey indicates that confidence in long term resilience remains low among the population. The findings point to a gap between official planning frameworks and public perception, especially when the consequences of storms are felt directly in everyday life.
Lavareda also highlighted that while citizens increasingly recognise climate risk as a structural challenge, the issue has not yet translated into a consistent sense of urgency in daily decision making. According to the study, concern about climate related threats exists but often remains overshadowed immediate economic and social priorities.
Portugal has implemented national and municipal climate adaptation plans in recent years, focusing on flood prevention, forest management and coastal protection. However, the survey results suggest that many residents remain unconvinced about the country’s overall capacity to withstand future extreme weather events. The debate over preparedness is expected to intensify as climate variability continues to affect infrastructure, public safety and economic activity across the country.
