The recent storm that struck mainland Portugal has caused significant damage to an NGO shelter in Ourém. This facility housed a group of Ukrainian widows and orphans displaced by the war. The deluge and strong winds rendered the center uninhabitable, necessitating the emergency relocation of the refugees to military accommodations.
Impact of the Storm on Ukrainian Refugees
The shelter, known as Centro Fénix, was home to 15 mothers and 18 children whose spouses had either died or gone missing due to conflict. These families arrived in Portugal on January 10 as part of a humanitarian mission. Tragically, within weeks, they experienced another trauma when their refuge was destroyed.
Emergency Response and Relocation
Following the destruction caused by the storm, known as depression Kristin, the Portuguese Army launched an emergency operation. The families are set to be transferred to Lisbon for temporary housing. They will be received at the Regimento de Transportes within the facilities of the former Regimento de Artilharia de Lisboa.
Support for Displaced Families
- The military is responsible for accommodation.
- Basic needs such as safety, food, and psychological support will be provided.
- The families require this assistance after their harrowing escape from the war in Ukraine.
Despite these challenges, the institutional agenda for the week includes a planned visit to the Assembleia da República on Thursday, January 29. This initiative demonstrates the ongoing commitment to support these vulnerable families during their crisis.
Storm Statistics and Regional Impact
Portugal is currently under a weather alert due to the severe effects of depression Kristin. The storm has resulted in thousands of incidents nationwide, including power outages and extensive material damage, especially in the central regions such as Leiria and Santarém.
Wind gusts have reached alarming speeds of up to 176 km/h, leading to structural collapses and flooding. The combination of these factors has prompted a dedicated focus on recovery efforts within affected communities.
