Portugal's government ordered the closure of all roughly 8,000 schools, non-essential public services, and a top world tech conference on Wednesday as Storm Charles approached the mainland. This marked the first time in living memory that classes were cancelled nationwide due to a forecast storm. Along with these closures, hundreds of supermarkets and businesses shut down, and airlines cancelled more than 200 flights.
The storm brought torrential rains, heavy downpours, and gale-force winds, including unusually strong gusts known as sting jets. Forecasts predicted wind gusts of up to 150 kph, six-metre waves, and thunder, with parts of Madeira placed under red alert. Authorities warned of flooding, power cuts, and falling trees, urging residents to seek shelter indoors during peaks of rain and wind.
The regional impact extended to Spain, where officials prepared for heavy rain and flooding, resulting in the evacuation of over 3,000 people due to the risk of a dam overflowing. Portuguese authorities spared no effort in preparing for the Atlantic storm following criticism after Storm Kristin in January.