A tragic incident in Portugal claimed the life of a British woman as a violent storm ravaged a campsite and hotel. The 85-year-old victim was staying at the HolaCamp site near Albufeira in the Algarve region when the unexpected weather event, associated with Storm Claudia, struck, causing significant damage and leaving 28 others injured.
The woman, who remains unidentified, was initially reported missing but was later found deceased amidst the debris. Witnesses recounted chaotic scenes as strong winds caused debris to scatter, prompting holidaymakers to seek shelter.
Authorities have classified the occurrence as an “extreme wind phenomenon,” with Portugal’s weather agency indicating a high likelihood of it being a tornado. According to reports, the incident affected both the campsite and a nearby hotel.
Police confirmed that a total of 28 individuals sustained injuries, including citizens from the UK, Portugal, and Spain, ranging in age from six to 86. The Hotel Eden and the campsite were both impacted by the tornado, resulting in injuries, including one serious case at each location.
Portuguese president Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa extended condolences to the victim’s family, acknowledging the tragic outcome of Storm Claudia’s passage through Albufeira. Albufeira mayor Rui Cristina expressed sorrow over the situation, offering support to the affected individuals and emphasizing the municipality’s efforts to provide assistance and restore normalcy swiftly.
