Portugal Extends State of Calamity Amid Rising Flood Risks, EU Funding at Risk

The Portuguese government has extended its state of calamity due to unprecedented flood risks, echoing the devastating floods of 2017. Prime Minister Luis Montenegro has declared a state of emergency in 69 municipalities until mid-February, citing high alert warnings on six major rivers, including the treacherous Tagus River.

The recent extension serves as a reminder of Portugal's history of adapting to natural disasters. In that same year, the European Union provided significant funding for flood protection measures, with a focus on modernizing riverbank defenses and improving emergency preparedness. The EU's support was contingent upon Portugal's commitment to implementing sustainable development policies and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.