### Material Damages Reported 

An **out-of-control bus** crashed into a **taxi** and collided with a **café** at the **Oriente Station** in Lisbon on Wednesday afternoon. 

According to **CNN Portugal**, sources from the **PSP** (Portuguese Police) confirmed that the bus, operated by **Rede Expressos**, caused significant damage to the establishment, leaving **broken glass** in its wake. 

Fortunately, there were **no injuries** reported. A source from the PSP stated, "Currently, only **material damage** has been recorded, affecting the vehicles and the establishment." 

The incident was logged around **3:00 PM**.

Há apenas danos materiais, nas viaturas e no estabelecimento

Out-of-Control Bus Collides with Taxi and Café at Lisbon's Oriente Station

## Overview of Heat-Related Mortality in Alentejo
The **Alentejo region**, known for its warm climate, has been experiencing an alarming increase in heat-related mortality due to climate change. This study investigates historical patterns of heat-related deaths from **1980 to 2015** and projects future impacts through **2100**.

### Methods Employed
Using a **case time series design**, researchers analyzed the relationship between daily mortality rates and mean temperatures across Alentejo's four subregions. The analysis included data from **May to September** and took into account greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5).

### Key Findings
- **Minimum Mortality Temperature (MMT)**: The study identified an MMT of **19.0 °C**, noting that mortality risks increase significantly when temperatures exceed this threshold.
- **Exponential Increase in Risk**: At extreme temperatures, such as **36.6 °C**, the risk of mortality surged by **413%**.
- **Heatwave Impact**: The **2003 heatwave** alone accounted for over **5,296 deaths**, highlighting the severe impacts of extreme heat events.
- **Future Projections**: Without adaptive measures, heat-related mortality could rise by up to **15.88%** by 2100 under a no-mitigation scenario. However, implementing mitigation strategies could limit this increase to **6.61%**.

### Implications for Health Policy
The findings emphasize the urgent need for **protective health policies** to mitigate the risks associated with heat exposure and to safeguard vulnerable populations in the region. Continuous monitoring and adaptation strategies are critical as climate change intensifies.

### Conclusion
The research underscores the **growing threat** of climate change on public health in Alentejo, necessitating immediate action to prevent further loss of life as temperatures continue to rise.

The increased severity of extreme weather and anticipated climate change has intensified heat stress-related mortality worldwide. This study examines the historical short-term effects of heat on mortality in Alentejo, Portugal’s warmest region, and projects it up to the end of the century. Using data from 1980 to 2015 during warm seasons (May-September), the association between daily mortality by all-causes and mean temperature was examined following a case time series design, applied at both regional and subregional scales. Projections for daily temperatures were obtained from regional climate models and greenhouse gas emission scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5). We also examined temporal shifts in mortality considering potential long-term and seasonal adaptative responses to heat. We then quantified the yearly effects of heat by calculating absolute and relative excess mortality from 1980 to 2015, specifically during the heatwave of 2003 (July 27 to August 15), and in future projections at 20-year intervals through 2100. The analysis revealed a significant rise in mortality risk at temperatures exceeding a minimum mortality temperature (MMT) of 19.0&nbsp;°C, with an exponential trend and delayed effects lasting up to 5 days. The risk increased by 413% at the maximum extreme temperature of 36.6&nbsp;°C. From 1980 to 2015, 2.32% of total deaths, equating to over 5,296 deaths, were heat-associated. No significant shifts over time were noted in the population’s response to heat. Future projections, without adaptation and demographic changes, show a potential increase in mortality by 15.88% under a “no mitigation policy” scenario by 2100, while mitigation measures could limit the rise to 6.61%. Results underscore the urgent need for protective health policies to reduce regional population vulnerability and prevent premature heat-related deaths across the century.

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

## Major Agreement Reached

Portugal and Spain have reached a significant agreement allowing the **Algarve region** to draw water from the **Guadiana River**. This initiative aims to combat one of the most detrimental phenomena affecting the Algarve, particularly during times of drought.  

![Guadiana River](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/image-1580.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

## Why This Matters

The agreement is crucial for ensuring a sustainable water supply in the Algarve, which has faced increasing challenges due to climate change and water scarcity. The ability to access the Guadiana's water will significantly enhance the region's resilience against drought conditions.

![Agreement Impact](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/sic-noticias-fsec-vp-rgb.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

As part of this deal, both countries have committed to collaborative efforts in managing water resources effectively, ensuring that the Algarve can continue to thrive despite environmental challenges. 

![Water Supply](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/seta-preta-2.png/w_1200,c_limit/)  

This agreement not only addresses immediate water supply needs but also sets a precedent for future cooperation between Portugal and Spain in managing shared resources.  

![Future Cooperation](https://transform-cf1.nws.ai/https%3A//cdn.thenewsroom.io/platform/story_media/1288818371/seta-preta-3.png/w_1200,c_limit/)

Portugal e Espanha chegaram a acordo e a região algarvia vai poder recorrer ao Guadiana para combater um dos fenómenos mais nefastos que tem assolado o Algarv

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

## Pedro Nuno Santos Expresses Anger Over Police Operation

The **Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS)**, **Pedro Nuno Santos**, has voiced feelings of **sadness** and **anger** regarding a police operation that took place on Thursday afternoon in the **Martim Moniz** area of **Lisbon**, which resulted in the arrest of two individuals. During a session at the **Assembly of the Republic**, Santos criticized the operation carried out by the **PSP** (Public Security Police), stating it is unrelated to **security issues** but rather to **perceptions**.

Santos stated, "**I feel sad as a politician and angry with our government's actions**. The operation yesterday has nothing to do with insecurity, as the Prime Minister suggests. It is about perceptions." He acknowledged that while **preventive actions** are provided for in the **internal security law**, they must meet specific conditions, particularly **proportionality**.

He further expressed, "**We have legitimate reasons to doubt the legality of that operation**. It is unimaginable that such an operation, where dozens of people were pressed against the wall, could occur in other areas or cities in the country." The PS plans to summon the Minister of Internal Administration, **Margarida Blasco**, and the National Director of the PSP, **Luís Carrilho**, to the Assembly to explain the justifications for the operation.

## Criticism of Repressive Culture

Santos also criticized what he perceives as a **repressive culture** emerging in Portugal, particularly targeting the **immigrant community**. He emphasized, "It is crucial for Portuguese citizens to realize that if a **repressive and intimidating culture** takes root in Portugal, today it affects immigrants, and tomorrow it could affect all Portuguese. The actions from yesterday signaled to younger generations to fear those who are different."

He reiterated that such police operations do not enhance the **sense of security** but rather undermine it. "**Portugal is an open and tolerant country, a nation of emigrants**. If we advocate for the integration of Portuguese abroad, we must respect those living and working in Portugal."

## Political Repercussions

Santos characterized the current government as the **"most extremist"** in the last several decades of democracy, insisting the country needs a government focused on addressing **real issues** rather than **imaginary ones**. He accused the Prime Minister and the Mayor of Lisbon of fostering a **climate of insecurity**.

### Isabel Moreira's Strong Reaction

**Isabel Moreira**, another PS deputy, described the police operation as **"unacceptable in a democratic regime"** and called for the hearing of the Minister and the PSP director. During a parliamentary debate on a government proposal to increase penalties for assaults on security forces, the police operation in Martim Moniz was raised by multiple parties, including PS, **Chega**, **BE**, **PCP**, and **CDS-PP**.

Moreira condemned the police's heavy-handed approach, stating, "We witnessed unimaginable images in a democracy. A strong police presence pressed citizens against the wall, searching them. This is unacceptable in a democratic regime."

The PS has formally requested to hear the Minister of Internal Administration and the PSP director regarding the gravity of the situation and the denial of the rule of law, emphasizing that security should be inclusive for all citizens, rejecting any notion of **"first-class and second-class citizens."**

Secretário-geral do PS diz ter dúvidas sobre legalidade da operação policial e acusa o primeiro-ministro de alimentar "clima de insegurança". PS vai chamar Margarida Blasco ao Parlamento.

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

## Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Hit by Russian Attack

The **Portuguese embassy in Kiev** was struck during a **Russian missile attack** on Friday, as confirmed by **Paulo Rangel**, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Thankfully, there have been **no reported injuries**. The Portuguese government has expressed its intention to file a **formal protest** with Moscow.

![Related Image](https://cdn-images.rtp.pt/icm/noticias/images/f9/f9160fdd51e1cbb6b10c21ec836878c3?w=860&q=90&rect=0,174,1500,822)
*Image Credit: Sergey Dolzhenko - EPA*

### Damage Assessment
The damage to the embassy was described as **minor**, with broken glass and damaged doors. Rangel emphasized that this incident should be addressed **diplomatically**.

In addition to the Portuguese embassy, **diplomatic missions from Argentina, Albania, and Montenegro** were also affected, as multiple diplomatic facilities are located within the same building.

### Diplomatic Response
**Rangel condemned the attack**, stating, "This is highly condemnable. Any attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine deserves our condemnation. However, it is absolutely unacceptable for there to be attacks that impact or target diplomatic facilities."

He also mentioned that the **Chargé d'Affaires of the Russian Federation** was summoned to the Ministry since the ambassador is not in Lisbon, to present the **formal protest**. According to Rangel, it is **unacceptable** by all international diplomatic rules for there to be impacts or targets on diplomatic missions in Ukraine's capital.

### Security Measures
Rangel reassured the public that the **security** of the embassy has always been ensured with **systematic reinforcements**. He noted that over the past three years, embassy staff have occasionally needed to **work remotely** due to safety concerns, highlighting the ongoing **risks** involved.

"It is clear that under no circumstances can we tolerate impacts or targeting of any diplomatic facility of any country," he asserted.

This stance reflects **Portugal's position towards the Russian Federation**, with further actions anticipated at a higher diplomatic level in due time.

A embaixada de Portugal em Kiev foi um dos edifícios atingidos pelo ataque russo desta sexta-feira com recurso a mísseis balísticos, sem notícia de feridos, confirmou à RTP o ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Paulo Rangel. O Governo manifestou a intenção de apresentar um protesto formal a Moscovo.


Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

The **Humans Before Borders Collective (HuBB)** condemned a police operation carried out on Thursday, December 20, in **Martim Moniz**, Lisbon, labeling it a **racist attack** against migrants frequenting the area. The collective criticized the government's tendency to link migration with **criminality**, asserting that such operations exacerbate tensions and contribute to discrimination. Meanwhile, the **PSP (Public Security Police)** defended the legitimacy of their actions, stating that they are necessary to maintain order in the city.

Movimento social condenou a operação policial que bloqueou a Rua do Benformoso em Lisboa. Colectivo HuBB acusa Governo de “colar a migração à criminalidade”. PSP reitera legitimidade da operação.

Police Operation in Martim Moniz Sparks Outrage: Accusations of Racism by Humans Before Borders Collective

**The Portuguese Parliament is poised to vote on a significant proposal this Friday (December 20)** that aims to simplify residency applications for citizens from Portuguese-speaking countries. This initiative, which has been in the works for six months, will allow **Brazilians and Timorese** to enter Portugal as tourists and apply for residency while in the country. Other CPLP citizens will still need to present visas upon entry but will also have access to residency permits.  

The proposal, which has already passed through the **Commission for Constitutional Affairs**, emphasizes the importance of the **CPLP** agreement, allowing those with short-term visas to apply for temporary residency directly within Portugal. The law's revision aims to facilitate the integration of these immigrants, particularly Brazilians, who have been identified as preferable due to linguistic similarities that aid in their adaptation.  

Despite government support for increased Brazilian immigration, **public sentiment appears divided**; a survey reveals that half of the Portuguese population would prefer to see fewer Brazilians in the country.  

**Economic Impact**: Business leaders argue that Brazilian immigrants invigorate the Portuguese economy, filling critical labor shortages, particularly in sectors like tourism and construction, where thousands of positions remain unfilled.  

**Potential Challenges**: The AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migrations, and Asylum) is expected to face increased demand, with estimates suggesting that **150,000 to 170,000 individuals** may seek residency under the new rules. Experts warn that without adequate staffing and resources, wait times could significantly increase, resulting in further legal challenges and backlogs.  

**New Residency Cards**: If approved, all CPLP residency holders will receive plastic residence cards valid for two years, moving away from the current paper format that lacks EU-wide validity.  

The anticipated changes are expected to streamline the residency process for many, but the **AIMA's current infrastructure** may struggle to meet the new demand, leading to longer wait times and potential legal disputes over processing delays.

Está prevista para esta sexta a votação, na Assembleia da República, da proposta que facilita a entrada de cidadãos dos países de língua portuguesa no país. Cadeado do sistema da AIMA será aberto.

Portugal Set to Welcome Brazilians and CPLP Citizens with New Residency Bill

### A Battle for Resources in Algarve

In the heart of Algarve, specifically in Querença/Silves, a **photovoltaic power plant** is being constructed over the largest aquifer in the region, raising alarm among local residents. The project spans **96 hectares** and involves the installation of **102,399 solar panels** in areas designated for maximum infiltration, threatening both the **visual landscape** and the **functionality of the hydraulic network**.

Residents of the **Quinta da Larga Vista** urbanization, which has 146 homes built on plots resembling small farms, have been struggling for public water supply for decades. They currently rely on an **artesian well** owned by the family of the former property owner and other private sources. Gail Serra, the president of the residents' association, expressed frustration that **environmental values** are overlooked in favor of large economic interests.

### Legal Complications

The urbanization, which was constructed without infrastructure, was later legalized through a revision of the **Municipal Master Plan** (PDM) approximately three years ago. This change reclassified the area from a **National Ecological Reserve** (REN) to a **rural agglomeration**, but residents now bear the burden of finding **autonomous solutions** for their water supply.

Alexandre Serra, a local agronomist, criticized the municipality for ignoring the impact of the solar plant while neglecting the basic needs of the residents. He questioned how he could obtain permission for a new well when his neighbor, who already has one, refuses to consent.

### Environmental Concerns

The **Regional Coordination and Development Commission** (CCDR-Algarve) has approved the **Environmental Impact Assessment** for the solar plant, despite the area being classified as REN. The agency stated that there are no water bodies associated with the hydrographic network in the project area, which raises concerns regarding the **environmental integrity** of this vital aquifer.

Residents fear that the solar installation will create a **visual discontinuity** in the landscape, with Gail Serra stating, "We will be surrounded by a sea of glass panels." Furthermore, the company providing irrigation water has indicated that they can only guarantee supply until the end of the year.

Luísa Luís, the vice president of the Silves Municipality, acknowledged the legitimacy of the residents' demands but stated that the municipality cannot meet these needs in the short term due to the complexity of the project. She mentioned a commitment with the company to ensure water supply continuity despite the ongoing challenges.

A infra-estrutura recebeu parecer favorável apesar de se situar num espaço de REN. Os futuros vizinhos de 120 painéis solares reivindicam há dezenas de anos abastecimento público de água.

Out-of-Control Bus Collides with Taxi and Café at Lisbon's Oriente Station

Summary:

Material Damages Reported

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Other Latest News

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

Police Operation in Martim Moniz Sparks Outrage: Accusations of Racism by Humans Before Borders Collective

Portugal Set to Welcome Brazilians and CPLP Citizens with New Residency Bill

Residents Fight for Water Supply as Solar Panels Encroach on Algarve Aquifer

Other Latest News

Rising Heat-Related Deaths in Portugal's Alentejo: A Dire Warning for the Future

Portugal and Spain Seal Agreement: Guadiana Water to Flow into Algarve Reservoirs

Outrage in Lisbon: Pedro Nuno Santos Condemns Police Operation in Martim Moniz as 'Extremist'

Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

Police Operation in Martim Moniz Sparks Outrage: Accusations of Racism by Humans Before Borders Collective

Portugal Set to Welcome Brazilians and CPLP Citizens with New Residency Bill

Residents Fight for Water Supply as Solar Panels Encroach on Algarve Aquifer