An 85-year-old British woman has died and dozens of people have been injured after violent winds linked to Storm Claudia tore through a holiday campsite in Albufeira, in Portugal’s southern Algarve region. Local authorities confirmed the woman had been reported missing before her body was discovered among the extensive damage caused by the sudden weather event.
According to regional civil protection officials, the storm struck the site late Friday morning with intense force, injuring at least 28 people across two nearby locations. Two victims sustained serious injuries, while the remaining cases — including six young children — were treated for minor wounds. Those hurt include Portuguese, Spanish and British nationals.
Authorities Investigate Whether a Tornado Hit the Algarve
Portugal’s national weather service, IPMA, said meteorologists are examining radar data to determine whether a tornado formed as Storm Claudia passed through the region. Early indications point to a “very high” likelihood that a tornado touched down, contributing to the widespread destruction and flying debris.
IPMA noted that predicting such localized wind phenomena remains extremely difficult, as they can develop rapidly and with minimal warning. The most destructive period of the storm is believed to have occurred between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., accompanied by damaging gusts and heavy rain.
Local Leaders Describe ‘Heartbreaking’ Damage
Albufeira’s mayor, Rui Cristina, visited the disaster zone and described scenes of “heartbreaking” destruction.
“There is a record of several injured and one fatal victim, aged 85 of British nationality,” he said. “We are working with all municipal resources and civil protection teams to support those affected and restore safety as quickly as possible.”
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa also issued a message of condolence, expressing solidarity with the victim’s family and praising emergency crews for their rapid response.
Storm Claudia’s Impact Felt Across Portugal and the UK
While emergency teams in the Algarve continue cleanup and assessment efforts, Storm Claudia is causing parallel disruption across the UK. In Monmouth, Wales, authorities have declared a major incident following severe flooding that left several neighbourhoods cut off overnight. Emergency responders conducted numerous water rescues, welfare checks and evacuations as rivers burst their banks under relentless rain.
More than 90 flood warnings remain in effect across the UK, with officials cautioning that saturated ground and swollen rivers continue to pose dangerous conditions. Although a yellow rain warning expired early Saturday morning, forecasters say the risk of further flooding remains high.
From Portugal to Britain, Storm Claudia continues to generate hazardous conditions and significant disruption, with authorities urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant.
Source:Africa Publicity
