### Severe Weather Impacting São Miguel

The Azores are currently experiencing the effects of **subtropical storm Patty**, which has led to significant weather disturbances. **Six incidents** have been reported, all occurring on the island of **São Miguel**, according to the **Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service of the Azores (SRPCBA)**.

![Flooded Houses in São Miguel](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/rb3pjhor5mtb.jpg?w=1852&q=80&crop=4794,3196,1,0)

The storm has resulted in **flooding in residential areas**, impacting the lives of many residents. Authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during this adverse weather event.

Stay informed and safe as the situation develops.

O mau tempo nos Açores causou seis ocorrências, todas na ilha de São Miguel, entre as quais inundações em habitações, segundo o Serviço Regional de Proteção Civil e Bombeiros dos Açores (SRPCBA).

Storm Patty Causes Flooding in São Miguel: What You Need to Know

As the year draws to a close, **Algarve** and **Alentejo** are set to host a variety of spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations suitable for all tastes. From lavish dinners to festive parties, there are countless options to welcome 2025 in style.

### Grupo Solverde
![Casino Vilamoura](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Casino-Vilamoura.jpg)
Grupo Solverde, which includes **Casino de Vilamoura** and **Monte Gordo Casino**, offers a special New Year's Eve program. At the **Hotel Algarve Casino**, guests can choose between two dinner options: **Restaurant Aladino** featuring live music from **Banda 2002** for €190 per person, or a buffet at **Restaurant Amendoeiras** for €160. Meanwhile, **Casino Vilamoura** will host **Banda Night Stars**, and **Casino Monte Gordo** will welcome **Ganda Banda CL**.

### Herdade da Rocha
![Herdade da Rocha](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Herdade-da-rocha-Boutique-Lodge-3.jpg)
Located in Alto Alentejo, **Herdade da Rocha Boutique Lodge** offers exclusive group reservations for up to 20 adults, with personalized menus. The New Year's Eve package includes a welcome cocktail, a buffet dinner, and accommodation for €494 for two adults.

### Hilton Garden Inn Évora
![Hilton Garden Inn Évora](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/image003-3-e1734981761451.jpg)
At Hilton Garden Inn Évora, guests can enjoy a buffet dinner starting at 7:30 PM, featuring a variety of dishes including **soup, seafood, and vegan options**, all for €175 per person. The night includes live music and a selection of drinks.

### Real Hotels Group Albufeira
![Real Hotels Group](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Fotografia-3.jpg)
In Albufeira, the **Real Hotels Group** has several New Year's Eve events. For a lively atmosphere, **Le Club** will feature DJ performances and fireworks starting at 11 PM. For those seeking a quieter evening, the **Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort** offers a gala dinner for €280.

### Monte Santo Resort
![Monte Santo Resort](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Prato-horizontal-Monte-Santo-Resort-scaled.jpg)
At **Monte Santo Resort**, the **Aroma Restaurant** is hosting a Brazilian-themed New Year's Eve party, complete with a welcome cocktail and DJ until 1 AM. The dinner menu includes various gourmet options for €169 per person.

### Pine Cliffs
![Pine Cliffs](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Imagem_Gardens_Passagem-de-ano.jpg)
**Pine Cliffs** will celebrate with multiple dining options including **O Pescador** and **Piri Piri Steakhouse**, serving dinner until 11:30 PM, followed by fireworks and a DJ. The exclusive event at **Maré** offers a lavish menu for €295 per person.

### Quinta do Lago
![Quinta do Lago](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/UMAMI-quinta-do-lago.jpg)
The **Quinta do Lago** resort features various New Year's Eve celebrations across its restaurants, with options ranging from Asian cuisine at **Umami** to traditional Portuguese dishes at **Casa Velha**.

### Tivoli Lagos
![Tivoli Lagos](https://www.sulinformacao.pt/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Tivoli-Lagos-Piscina.jpg)
Celebrate at **Tivoli Lagos** with a **Casino Night** theme, offering a New Year's Eve dinner for €155 and a brunch on January 1st for €30.

With these exciting options, **Algarve** and **Alentejo** promise a memorable start to 2025! Check local listings for more details and booking options.

Há opções de jantar com festa e também estadia

Unforgettable New Year's Eve Celebrations Await in Algarve and Alentejo

### A Message of Hope from Prime Minister Montenegro

In his **first Christmas message** as Prime Minister, Montenegro reflects on the government's achievements over the past nine months while addressing key promises and expressing optimism for the future. He emphasizes the importance of **social welfare** and aligns himself with a fundamental leftist concept: the **welfare state**.  

Montenegro also reiterates the need for **security measures**, particularly as the PSP faces scrutiny due to recent operations at Martim Moniz. His message aims to resonate with the more vulnerable members of society, showcasing a government focused on **stability** and **wealth creation** as pillars to sustain social services.

Montenegro's optimism is framed within the context of Portugal being a **reference point for stability**, which he believes is crucial for the country's future prosperity.

Na sua primeira mensagem de Natal, o primeiro-ministro pisca o olho aos mais frágeis, defende políticas de imigração e segurança e olha o futuro com optimismo: “País é referencial de estabilidade.”

Montenegro's Christmas Message: A Call for Stability and Wealth Creation to Support Social Welfare

## 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

## Disruptions at Lisbon Airport

The **strike** by handling companies **Menzies** (formerly Groundforce) and **Portway** has led to delays in **some flights**, with the **cargo sector** being the most affected, according to union sources.

![Handling Strike Impact](https://thumbs.web.sapo.io/?W=800&H=0&delay_optim=1&epic=Y2E4bAWiL9yWyXJLp7YDJy7BqU+l75y2KpBR+m8GeBrQkA65PDm560kpXWZOVxu0EGPPcKngAfMOPoO+cW+wbCiv+g==)
*Image Credit: INÁCIO ROSA/LUSA*

At approximately **4:30 PM**, Carlos Oliveira from the **Metalworking and Related Industries Union (SIMA)** noted that the **aviation flow** is significantly lower today, Christmas Day, with about **10 to 11 flights** delayed at Lisbon Airport due to the Menzies workers' strike providing ground assistance. 

According to Oliveira, the strike is primarily impacting the **cargo sector**, with **several trucks** still waiting and no estimate on when they will be dispatched. The strike began at **midnight on December 22** and is conducted in **two-hour modules** during the shifts.

SIMA has requested data on the participation of SPdH/Menzies workers, who are advocating for better **salary and working conditions**. The protest stems from the company's lack of response to issues like inadequate transportation during shift changes and the requirement for workers to pay for parking when they drive to work.

The union demands that Menzies eliminate **base salaries** lower than the national minimum wage (set at **€820 for 2024**) and ensure that night hours are compensated according to the company agreement.

In addition to Menzies workers, **Portway** workers have also planned a strike for the Christmas and New Year period. This strike will cover all **supplementary work** starting from **midnight on December 24, 2024**, until **midnight on January 1, 2025**. Further strikes will occur from **midnight on December 24** and **midnight on December 31**.

The strike will also affect work on public holidays that coincide with normal working days, from **December 24 to January 2, 2025**.

A greve das empresas de ‘handling’ Menzies, antiga Groundforce, e Portway provocou atrasos em “alguns voos”, sendo o setor das cargas o mais afetado, disse fonte sindical à Lusa....

Major Disruptions at Lisbon Airport: Handling Strike Causes Flight Delays

### 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

## Premiere on February 13 at Teatro Villaret

Get ready for **“ESCOLHAS,”** an interactive comedy where every decision is in your hands, making each performance a unique experience! Directed by **Marco Medeiros**, this exciting show kicks off on **February 13** at **Teatro Villaret** and promises to engage the audience with significant choices. 

The talented cast includes **José Pedro Vasconcelos**, **Jessica Athayde**, **Joana Pais de Brito**, **Vasco Pereira Coutinho**, and **Hugo Mestre Amaro**.

![ESCOLHAS](https://208.87.240.219/s/image/tsr/brandm/content/1920x1280/ye4jn4t5zas4jqhlqjqbl1cptu3.png)

Based on the text by **Sébastien Azzopardi** and **Sacha Danino**, **“ESCOLHAS”** blends humor, emotion, and dynamism, turning every session into an unpredictable adventure. In this play, the audience becomes the main character, grappling with one of life’s greatest challenges: the difficulty of making decisions.

### Synopsis

Meet **Miguel**, who works in his brother-in-law's jewelry store, has a stable girlfriend, and possesses a musical talent he has never pursued beyond a mere dream. Shy and indecisive, he lives his life on autopilot until an unexpected event occurs: on his birthday, his first love walks through the door of the shop after years apart.

From that moment on, Miguel embarks on a journey of uncertainties, entrusting the audience with the power to decide his fate. Love, work, friendship, family: which path will he choose? The fate is in your hands!

Tickets are now available for purchase through **Ticketline** and other usual outlets.

### Details
- **Show**: ESCOLHAS
- **Location**: Teatro Villaret, Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo
- **Starting Date**: February 13
- **Cast**: Hugo Mestre Amaro, Joana Pais de Brito, José Pedro Vasconcelos, Jessica Athayde, Vasco Pereira Coutinho
- **Text**: Sébastien Azzopardi and Sacha Danino
- **Direction and Lighting Design**: Marco Medeiros
- **Translation**: Ana Sampaio
- **Set and Costumes**: Rui Lopes
- **Assistant Director**: Rebeca Duarte
- **Production**: Força de Produção

Um espetáculo onde cada decisão está nas suas mãos e cada apresentação é única. Assim é “ESCOLHAS”, a nova comédia interativa com encenação de Marco Medeiros, que estreia no Teatro Villaret dia 13 de Fevereiro e promete envolver o público em grandes decisões.  O elenco é composto por José Pedro Vasconcelos, Jessica Athayde, Joana Pais de Brito, Vasco Pereira Coutinho e Hugo Mestre Amaro.

Experience the Unique Interactive Comedy 'ESCOLHAS' Premiering at Teatro Villaret

**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

Storm Patty Causes Flooding in São Miguel: What You Need to Know

Summary:

Severe Weather Impacting São Miguel

Comments

Join Our Community

Subscribe our newsletter to receive our daily digested news

PortugalToday.news

Other Latest News

Unforgettable New Year's Eve Celebrations Await in Algarve and Alentejo

Montenegro's Christmas Message: A Call for Stability and Wealth Creation to Support Social Welfare

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

Major Disruptions at Lisbon Airport: Handling Strike Causes Flight Delays

Lisbon Patriarch Calls for Dignity Amid Political Tensions Surrounding Security Forces

Experience the Unique Interactive Comedy 'ESCOLHAS' Premiering at Teatro Villaret

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

Other Latest News

Unforgettable New Year's Eve Celebrations Await in Algarve and Alentejo

Montenegro's Christmas Message: A Call for Stability and Wealth Creation to Support Social Welfare

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

Major Disruptions at Lisbon Airport: Handling Strike Causes Flight Delays

Lisbon Patriarch Calls for Dignity Amid Political Tensions Surrounding Security Forces

Experience the Unique Interactive Comedy 'ESCOLHAS' Premiering at Teatro Villaret

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