### **Weather Alert for Madeira**  
The **Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere** has issued a **yellow warning** due to expected heavy rainfall. This alert is in effect from **19:27 to midnight** today, specifically impacting the **North coast** and mountainous areas of **Madeira**.  
  
### **Forecast Details**  
Residents should prepare for **intense showers**, which may be accompanied by **thunderstorms**. Stay safe and monitor local weather updates for any changes in conditions.

O&nbsp;Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera acaba de emitir um aviso amarelo devido à chuva que se fará sentir, entre as&nbsp;19h27 e a meia-noite de hoje, na costa Norte e zonas montanhosas da Madeira.

Severe Weather Alert: Madeira Under Yellow Warning for Heavy Rain

### 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.

Running Clubs in Lisbon: A New Wave of Community and Connection

### Major Transport Savings for Alentejo Coast Residents

Travel between the five municipalities on the **Alentejo coast** and to **Setúbal** and **Lisbon** will see a significant price drop, as the cost of monthly transport passes will be reduced to **€20** starting from **January 2025**. This is a **50% reduction** from the current price of **€40**.

![Alcácer do Sal](https://d1mnxluw9mpf9w.cloudfront.net/media/1726674818/4x3/1200.jpg)
*Credits: Lusa*

In a recent statement, the **Intermunicipal Community of Alentejo Litoral (CIMAL)** announced this decision, which was unanimously approved by the mayors of **Alcácer do Sal**, **Grândola**, **Santiago do Cacém**, **Sines**, and **Odemira**. According to CIMAL, this reduction means users can save **€240 per year**, and it applies automatically to those currently using the €40 pass, with no further action required.

Users not yet subscribed to the fare reduction can do so through a form available on the **CIMAL website**. This initiative follows a series of investments in public transport aimed at making it more accessible and affordable for local communities.

CIMAL President **Vítor Proença** emphasized the importance of providing **affordable public transport** to enhance mobility across the five municipalities. The next steps include leveraging new technologies for real-time transport information and improving the **tariff system**.

Additionally, since **2023**, CIMAL has provided **free transport to beaches** in the area during July and August, which has now become a daily service connecting residents to **12 beaches** in the region.

Travel between the five municipalities on the Alentejo coast and to Setúbal and Lisbon will cost €20 from 2025, with the maximum price of passes reduced by...

Big Savings Ahead: Transport Passes to Cost Just €20 in 2025!

### Incident Overview
On Saturday evening, **seven men were arrested in Parque das Nações, Lisbon**, after one member of their group threatened a man on the street with a **firearm**.

### Details of the Arrest
The **Public Security Police (PSP)** apprehended the suspects following a detailed description provided by the victim, which led to their swift capture. 

### Background of the Suspects
All detainees, aged between **20 and 24 years**, have prior records for **assault** or **vandalism** and reside in various municipalities across the greater Lisbon area. 

### Legal Consequences
As part of their release conditions, the suspects are required to report to authorities **every 15 days**.

<p><span>Um dos elementos do grupo ameaçou um homem na rua com uma arma de fogo este sábado.</span></p>

Seven Arrested in Lisbon with Weapons: Shocking Threats Unveiled

### Lisbon Police Operations Uncover Counterfeit Goods

On **Monday**, the **PSP** (Public Security Police) and **Municipal Police** of Lisbon conducted a significant **enforcement operation** in **Largo de São Domingos**, seizing various materials suspected of being **counterfeit** and issuing **22 violation reports**.

In a statement released on **Tuesday**, the **Lisbon Metropolitan Command** of the PSP highlighted that this operation was part of their ongoing efforts to **prevent illicit activities**, supported by mapping criminal occurrences such as minor **drug trafficking**. 

The operation also took into account **illegal activities** such as unlicensed street vending and drug use, factoring in not only formally recorded incidents but also numerous **complaints and reports of insecurity** in the area.

As a result, the PSP and the **Municipal Police** conducted **22 reports** for violations, seizing food, clothing, and footwear, alongside **24 articles suspected of being stolen**, estimated to be worth around **€1,000**, and **46 counterfeit sports items**, valued at approximately **€2,000**. 

Additionally, a mobile phone and items worth about **€220** were confiscated, along with nearly **€1,600** in various cash. Two foreign nationals were also notified for **voluntary departure** from the country due to their illegal status in Portugal.

Na ação, realizada esta segunda-feira, foram levantados 22 autos de contraordenação com apreensões de comida, vestuário e calçado.

Severe Weather Alert: Madeira Under Yellow Warning for Heavy Rain

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Weather Alert for Madeira

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Other Latest News

CCDR Algarve Staff Bring Christmas Cheer to 50 Vulnerable Children

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

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Big Savings Ahead: Transport Passes to Cost Just €20 in 2025!

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Lisbon Police Crack Down on Counterfeit Goods in Major Operation

Other Latest News

CCDR Algarve Staff Bring Christmas Cheer to 50 Vulnerable Children

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

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

Running Clubs in Lisbon: A New Wave of Community and Connection

Big Savings Ahead: Transport Passes to Cost Just €20 in 2025!

Seven Arrested in Lisbon with Weapons: Shocking Threats Unveiled

Lisbon Police Crack Down on Counterfeit Goods in Major Operation