The consecutive passage of storms Ingrid, Joseph, and Kristin has resulted in significant disruption across the Leiria district. The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) community has been particularly affected by the weather events of January 28, 2026, prompting a large-scale mobilization of aid and the activation of emergency protocols by ADRA Portugal.
Assessment of Infrastructure and Facilities
While the structural integrity of regional ecclesiastical buildings remains largely intact, the impact of the storms varied by location:
Leiria City: The central SDA church sustained damage to its primary entrance and windows due to wind-borne debris.
São Jorge: Located 20km south of the district capital, the facility reported no structural damage, though numerous fallen trees have obstructed the immediate perimeter.
Gândara dos Olivais: The local facility remained unaffected.
Despite the relative stability of institutional buildings, the private residences of the congregation have suffered extensive damage. Reports indicate numerous cases of total or partial destruction, including structural failures of roofs and facades. Communication remains intermittent due to the collapse of the power grid and telecommunications infrastructure.
Humanitarian Impact and Personnel
The storm has displaced several families, including regional leadership. The residence of Pastor Moisés Silva, who oversees the Leiria, Gândara dos Olivais, and São Jorge congregations, was declared uninhabitable following total destruction.
Due to the lack of electricity and the collapse of local utilities, several families remain unreachable. Authorities and church volunteers are currently working to establish contact and ensure the safety of all registered members.
Operational Adjustments and ADRA Response
In response to the crisis, ADRA Portugal (the Adventist Development and Relief Agency) has officially activated its emergency response mechanism. Executive Director Cármen Maciel confirmed that a comprehensive needs assessment is currently being conducted across all affected delegations.
"Local teams are actively monitoring beneficiaries and coordinating volunteer efforts, primarily focusing on debris clearance and the provision of essential supplies," Maciel stated.
Religious services for the upcoming Sabbath are expected to proceed with significant modifications:
Leiria Church: Activities for minors have been restricted due to a lack of natural light in internal classrooms.
Evening Services: All nocturnal prayer meetings are suspended indefinitely until power is restored.
Regional Context and Recovery Outlook
The devastation within the Adventist community reflects a broader crisis in the Leiria municipality, where three fatalities have been confirmed. Public infrastructure has suffered catastrophic damage, with officials warning that the restoration of power and communications may take several weeks.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to coordinate with local civil protection and ADRA to prioritize the relocation of displaced members and the distribution of emergency aid.
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