In response to the worsening meteorological conditions forecast by the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) for November 11, and following the Government's decision to declare a state of alert across the country, the Municipality of Guarda has implemented exceptional preventive measures to minimize people's movement.
Schools in the municipality and non-essential services will be closed. Two reception points will be available for children whose parents work in essential services, providing meals. One facility is for children up to 12 years old, and another for those over 12. Guardians requiring this support should contact their respective school clusters. The reception points are Escola Secundária Afonso de Albuquerque (for over 12s) and Centro Escolar da Sequeira (for up to 12s).
Municipal public services will be closed, with the exception of the Paços do Concelho Building, which will operate under restricted conditions solely to ensure essential minimum services. All activities organized by the Municipality, including the 4th Guarda Book Fair at the Municipal Theatre of Guarda, have been cancelled.
The Municipal Civil Protection Service provides the telephone contacts 271 220 219 and 965920662 for reporting situations. Strong winds are expected in high-altitude areas, with gusts up to 120 km/h (potentially exceeding 150 km/h), and heavy rain with the possibility of thunderstorms. Flooding, overflowing watercourses, falling trees, slope instability, slippery road surfaces, and potential failures in water, electricity, and communication services are anticipated.
Civil Protection recommends clearing drainage systems, avoiding travel in areas prone to water accumulation or river overflow, moving animals and property from flood-prone zones, securing external structures against strong winds, and adopting defensive driving practices. The public is urged to adopt safe behaviors, strictly follow the guidelines from Civil Protection, parish councils, and the Municipal Council, and remain at home whenever possible, avoiding unnecessary travel.
