Mayor José Manuel Gonçalves warned that water levels are rising rapidly, with the river already reaching 1.5 to 2 meters along Avenida João Franco.

“The situation is getting worse, and we are closely monitoring it,” Gonçalves told reporters. “Our evacuation plan is ready to be put into action if necessary.”

The Douro Port Authority upgraded the flood alert from orange to red, suspending all river traffic and activating emergency measures outlined in the municipal response plan, according to Deputy Commander Pedro Cervaens.

Mayor Gonçalves said the rise in the river’s level was expected, and that the local authorities had been preparing for several days. “It’s predictable that the river would reach saturation, and all our teams are on alert to protect residents and minimise damage,” he added.

Residents in low-lying areas are being urged to stay alert and follow official guidance as authorities continue to monitor the situation.