Movers in Portugal have responded to the aftermath of a series of severe storms in the country over the past week, which have caused disruption across several regions.
In addition to several fatalities and many injuries, strong winds and heavy rainfall have caused power and communications outages, blocked roads and caused infrastructure damage, including in Leiria and surrounding regions.
According to Lisbon-based Affiliate Invictus Relocation Services, the storms may cause delays in some areas, restrict access to certain districts because of road blockages or safety measures, and impact response times as a result of disruption to utilities.
In an email update, the company said its teams were working with local authorities and partners to keep operations running safely, adjusting schedules where necessary and communicating clearly with any clients affected.
The company’s founder and CEO, Fábio Manuel, told FIDI Focus: ‘The recent storm caused disruption across several regions in Portugal. Our immediate focus was ensuring the safety of our teams, clients and their belongings. While some areas experienced temporary power outages and access restrictions, our operations remained active through close coordination with local authorities and partners.
‘Events such as these reinforce how essential trust and cooperation are – between clients, service providers and international partners – to ensure continuity and confidence, even under challenging conditions.’
Jorge Gomes, Chief Executive Officer, Global International, said strong winds had intermittently affected container loading and unloading activities, with some air cargo flights being rescheduled. However, he added that the company had largely maintained continuity.
‘Our teams have remained fully operational, working closely with clients, agents and suppliers to proactively manage schedules, assess risks and implement alternative routing solutions where required,’ Gomes said.
‘Preventive measures are already in place to ensure readiness should conditions deteriorate further.’
Bruno Rosa, of Premier International Movers, added that storms had affected several rail connections in the country, particularly those serving the ports in Leixões and Lisbon, which has impacted rail and maritime cargo operations.
‘Our team remains in close contact with partners, shipping lines and clients to provide timely updates and minimise disruption wherever possible,’ he said. ‘Despite the operational challenges caused by the recent storms, our priority remains clear communication with clients and proactive coordination with partners, to ensure shipments resume safely and efficiently as soon as conditions allow.’