## **Severe Weather Alert for Algarve and Baixo Alentejo**  
The districts of **Évora** and **Faro** are under a **yellow warning** due to forecasts of **heavy rain** and **thunderstorms** expected to hit the region starting this Friday. Meteorologist **Maria João Frada** has indicated that while the situation may be calm initially, it is anticipated to escalate later in the day.  
![Severe Weather](https://asset.skoiy.com/tsfiqogiwkcugyug/hwd19ckrfp7x.jpg?w=1852&q=80)  
*Image Credit: Tiago Petinga/Lusa (archive)*

Os distritos de Évora e Faro vão estar sob aviso amarelo, mas o alerta pode aumentar a partir de sexta-feira devido à chuva forte

Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Expected in Algarve and Baixo Alentejo This Friday

## Severe Weather Warnings for Madeira

The **Port Captaincy of Funchal** has issued urgent warnings regarding **bad weather and strong winds** affecting the Madeira archipelago. These alerts are in effect until **6 PM** on **Thursday, December 26** and include several safety recommendations for both the maritime community and the general public.

![Weather Alert](https://static-storage.dnoticias.pt/www-assets.dnoticias.pt/images/configuration/R/RUS_1294_gip7Y2h.JPEG)

### Weather Conditions
According to the **Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA)**, the overall weather conditions for the coastline are expected to be **cool to very cool**, with periods of strong winds. Visibility will be described as **"good to moderate"**.

### Wave Heights
Waves may reach heights of up to **2.5 meters**, posing additional risks to those at sea and along the coast.

### Safety Recommendations
The Port Captaincy has urged the maritime community and the public to take the following precautions:
- **Strengthen mooring** and maintain close monitoring of anchored and moored vessels.
- **Avoid walking** near the sea or in areas exposed to maritime agitation, such as **port breakwaters**, cliffs, or beaches, to prevent being caught off guard by waves.
- **Refrain from recreational fishing**, especially near cliffs and areas frequently impacted by wave action, as the sea can easily reach seemingly safe zones under these conditions.

### Additional Warnings
Following information from IPMA, the Port Captain of Funchal has also issued another warning of **bad weather**, categorized as **signal 6**, which corresponds to **winds of force 7 (51 to 62 km/h)** from any direction.

The captain has advised **boat owners and operators** to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

A capitania do Porto do Funchal faz várias recomendações à comunidade marítima e à população

Severe Weather Alerts Issued for Madeira: What You Need to Know

### Patriarch's Concerns Over Security Forces and Politics

The **Patriarch of Lisbon, Rui Valério**, expressed his concern that recent events involving **security forces**, particularly the **PSP (Public Security Police)**, have become heavily politicized. Speaking to **Lusa** and **RTP** after a Christmas Mass at the **Sé de Lisboa**, he emphasized that despite the current challenges facing the capital, it remains a city of **hope** and **welcoming spirit**.

### Commitment to the Common Good

Valério mentioned that all active forces in society are genuinely committed to the **common good** and the **dignity of every human being**. He defended the **PSP**, stating that their actions are never arbitrary and that they operate under a framework of ethical principles. 

He highlighted the **prestigious ISPSI**, the **Higher Institute of Police Sciences and Internal Security**, which is internationally recognized for its scientific competence, ensuring that police actions are well-planned and ethically grounded.

### Ethical Dimensions of Policing

The Patriarch stressed that the police do not use **disproportionate means** relative to their objectives. He believes that society can only move forward by cooperating and building connections. 

### Reflections on Global Conflicts

In light of global conflicts, Valério recalled **Pope Francis’s** call for religion to be a **force for peace**. He articulated that **religion** should bring people closer to each other and to **God**, fostering sensitivity and understanding among individuals.

### The Dangers of Populism

Addressing the rise of **populism** worldwide, he described it as an **attack on dignity** that exploits human needs for ulterior motives. He warned that populism often leads to **extremism** and **intolerance**, which are detrimental to society.

Valério concluded by urging for a condemnation of paths leading to **violence** and **exploitation**, asserting that the religious factor should never be used for ignoble goals. He called on religious leaders to safeguard the integrity of the spiritual dimension of humanity.

“Todas as forças vivas que a compõem, que a constituem, estão verdadeiramente empenhadas e até comprometidas com o bem comum e, sobretudo, com a promoção da dignidade de cada ser humano”, acrescentou.

Lisbon Patriarch Calls for Dignity Amid Political Tensions Surrounding Security Forces

**GNR Reports Alarming Road Safety Figures**

The **National Republican Guard (GNR)** has reported a staggering **1,144 accidents** over the past five days, resulting in **10 fatalities** and **33 serious injuries** since the commencement of the **2024/2025 Christmas and New Year operation** at midnight on December 20.

### Age Range of Victims
The victims ranged in age from **19 to 76 years** old. The causes of these fatalities included:
- **Four rollovers**
- **Three motorcycle accidents**
- **One light vehicle incident**
- **Three collisions**
- **Three pedestrian accidents**

### Locations of Accidents
Significant incidents occurred at various locations, including:
- **EN125** in Albufeira (Faro)
- **Fonte Coberta** in Barcelos (Braga)
- **EN119** in Biscainho (Santarém)
- **A23** in Benquerenças (Castelo Branco)
- **Ponte Barão** in Boliqueime (Faro)
- **IP2** in Beja
- **IC2** in Santa Maria da Feira (Aveiro)
- **Pedroso** in Vila Nova de Gaia (Porto)
- **A19** in Leiria
- **Oliveira do Bairro** in Aveiro

### Enforcement Actions
During this period, the GNR has also conducted checks on **50,197 drivers**, leading to:
- **572** driving under the influence of alcohol
- **286** arrests for blood alcohol levels at or above **1.2 g/l**
- **89** arrests for driving without a valid license

The GNR has identified a total of **7,816 traffic violations**, including:
- **2,364** for speeding
- **286** for alcohol-related offenses
- **238** for improper seatbelt use
- **173** for mobile phone use while driving
- **813** for lack of mandatory vehicle inspection
- **252** for lacking compulsory civil liability insurance

### Continued Monitoring
The GNR will maintain its focus on preventing driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, speeding, and the improper use of mobile phones throughout the operation, which concludes on January 2. They will also monitor seatbelt compliance, vehicle inspections, insurance status, and safe driving maneuvers.

Vítimas mortais tinham entre os 19 e os 76 anos

Tragic Road Accidents: 10 Lives Lost in Just Five Days in Portugal

### A Heartwarming Initiative by CCDR Algarve

Last week, **employees of the Algarve Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR)** organized a **solidarity action** that collected individual donations to deliver **Christmas gifts** to **50 children and adolescents** from the **Social Welfare Center Nossa Senhora de Fátima** in Olhão and **Bom Samaritano Home** in Alvor (Portimão).

The **Social Welfare Center Nossa Senhora de Fátima**, founded on principles of **social solidarity**, is dedicated to supporting girls in vulnerable family situations, promoting their **physical, moral, and spiritual development** for a dignified future.

![Christmas Initiative](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Banner-Sao-Bras-Parises-2024.jpg)

In contrast, the **Bom Samaritano Home** focuses on assisting at-risk children and youth, providing them with a **safe and educational environment**.

The CCDR emphasized, "Understanding the dimension of social responsibility in our mission of regional support and the spirit of our Code of Ethics and Conduct, the public servants at CCDR Algarve carry out this joyful commitment during the Christmas season as a gesture of social solidarity that aligns with their mission of public service and support for social sector entities in Algarve."

CCDR Algarve Staff Bring Christmas Cheer to 50 Vulnerable Children

### Ukraine Faces Christmas Missile Barrage

Ukrainian authorities reported on Wednesday that **a massive wave of Russian missiles** has severely damaged energy facilities, resulting in one death and at least six injuries, marking the second consecutive year Ukraine celebrates Christmas on December 25th.

President **Volodymyr Zelensky** condemned the assault, stating, "Today Putin consciously chose Christmas for his attack. What could be more inhumane?" Over **50 missiles** and several **drones** were intercepted, but some strikes led to **power outages across multiple regions**. Zelensky characterized this "Christmas terror" as Putin's response to discussions of a **mythical 'Christmas ceasefire'** between Kyiv and Moscow.

Regional Governor **Sergii Lyssak** emphasized, "The enemy is trying to destroy the power grid in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Since this morning, the Russian army has been **massively attacking** Dnipropetrovsk."

Ukrainian electricity provider **Ukrenergo** announced supply restrictions, with the Energy Minister stating that the transmission operator is taking necessary measures to limit consumption and minimize negative impacts on the energy system. **German Galushchenko**, the Energy Minister, noted that energy workers would assess damage once security conditions allow.

**DTEK**, Ukraine's largest private energy supplier, reported significant damage to its thermal power plants due to this latest attack, marking the **13th major assault** on Ukraine's energy infrastructure this year. **Maxim Timchenko**, DTEK's CEO, described the act of depriving millions of peaceful people of light and heat on Christmas as a **depraved and malicious** act that must be countered, urging allies for more air defenses.

### Ukraine on High Alert

Since the war began in February 2022, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine's electricity infrastructure, causing regular power outages. An air alert is currently in effect across Ukraine as the Air Force reports launches of **Russian Kalibr cruise missiles** from the Black Sea.

**Igor Terekhov**, the mayor of Kharkiv, reported a **massive missile attack** on the city, confirming that at least three people were injured and material damage occurred. The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed launches targeting regions including **Vinnytsia, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd,** and **Cherkassy**.

These attacks coincide with Ukraine's **celebration of Christmas** on December 25th for the second time in modern history, a shift from the traditional January 7th date followed by the Russian Orthodox Church. This change was formalized in the summer of 2023 through legislation signed by President Zelensky as a defiant gesture against Russia.

Rússia é acusada de “tentar destruir” a rede eléctrica de Dnipropetrovsk. Ucrânia está a celebrar o Natal a 25 de Dezembro pela segunda vez.

Russia Launches Massive Christmas Missile Attack on Ukraine's Power Grid

### Urban Hygiene Workers Strike in Lisbon

Starting this **Wednesday**, urban hygiene workers in **Lisbon** have initiated a strike that will continue until the **New Year**. This action is part of ongoing labor disputes concerning working conditions and compensation.

#### Minimum Services Decreed
The strike will feature **minimum services** mandated for **Thursday, Friday, and Saturday** (from December 26 to 28). This means that while the strike is in effect, certain essential services will still be operational to ensure public hygiene and safety.

![Urban Hygiene Workers Strike](https://asset.skoiy.com/tsfiqogiwkcugyug/20ne3fils07b.jpg?w=1852&q=80)
*Image Credit: Tiago Petinga/Lusa*  

As the holiday season approaches, the implications of this strike on local residents and visitors are significant, especially in maintaining cleanliness and order in public spaces.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops and further details emerge regarding the demands of the workers and the response from the city authorities.

A greve conta com serviços mínimos, decretados para quinta-feira, sexta-feira e sábado (de 26 a 28 de dezembro)

Urban Hygiene Workers in Lisbon Strike Leading Up to New Year: What You Need to Know

### The Rise of Running Groups in Lisbon

Running in Lisbon has its own etiquette, and it seems like more and more people are learning it. As the evening falls, you can find groups gathering at popular spots like Rui dos Pregos in the Docas. Among them is the **500 Miles Run Club**, initiated by **Catarina Ribeiro**, a 24-year-old chemical engineer who found her passion for running during the pandemic. Initially hesitant, she discovered the joy of running and began organizing runs in her area, Azeitão.

![500 Miles](https://media.timeout.com/images/106218740/image.jpg)
*Image Credit: Francisco Romão Pereira*

### A Community of Runners
Catarina emphasizes the importance of camaraderie among runners, stating that mutual understanding and encouragement make the experience enjoyable. The club has grown significantly over the summer, with regular meet-ups on Tuesdays and occasional runs on Thursdays. The numbers fluctuate, especially with weather changes, but the community spirit remains strong.

### More Than Just Running
Catarina mentions that running groups are becoming like **dating apps**, where social connections form naturally. After group runs, members often gather for refreshments, creating an inviting atmosphere. Another group, the **Rookie Run Club**, founded by expatriates Martha Fitzpatrick, Sarah Kelly, and Lizzy Elli, has also seen tremendous growth, bringing together locals and foreigners alike.

![Rookie Run Club](https://media.timeout.com/images/106218742/image.jpg)
*Image Credit: DR*

### Building Friendships and More
This club started with a few friends and quickly expanded, fostering relationships and even romantic connections among members. Their regular runs and post-run coffee meet-ups have solidified friendships, making it a thriving community hub.

### Ele Ela Running Club
Meanwhile, the **Ele Ela Running Club**, created by Alena Gamm and Diego Silva, meets every Friday for runs that promote socialization in their neighborhood. This club has also seen friendships blossom, and they often wear matching gear to stand out during their runs.

![Ele Ela Running Club](https://media.timeout.com/images/106218743/image.jpg)
*Image Credit: DR*

With the growing interest in running clubs across Lisbon, it’s clear that these groups are not just about fitness; they are about building connections and fostering a sense of community among both locals and expatriates.

E são cada vez mais, mais jovens e internacionais. Calçámos os ténis e tentámos acompanhar-lhes o passo.

Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Expected in Algarve and Baixo Alentejo This Friday

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Severe Weather Alert for Algarve and Baixo Alentejo

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