José Manuel Bolieiro calls for "responsibility and calm" in face of worsening weather conditions - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, announced today at the Conceição Palace in Ponta Delgada the measures to be taken in view of the approach of Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle to the archipelago, highlighting the risk associated with the situation and the civil protection actions currently underway.

According to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), the system could develop into a category 1 hurricane, with gale-force winds, heavy rainfall and a high risk of flooding and property damage. Red warnings have been issued for the Western and Central group islands, which are the most exposed areas.

This afternoon, Order No. 2121-A/2025 of September 24, 2025, was published in the Official Journal, determining the closure of all public services and entities located on the Western and Central group islands until 6 p.m. on September 26. Urgent and essential services are excluded from this determination, namely hospitals, health centres, civil protection services and other structures indispensable to public safety and rescue operations.

The head of the Azorean Government called for calm and responsibility, reminding everyone that "it is essential that the population follow the recommendations issued by the official authorities and respect self-protection measures."

"The absolute priority is to protect the life and integrity of people," he added, calling for the cooperation of all to minimise risks.

Practical recommendations were further emphasised, such as limiting unnecessary travel, staying at home or in safe locations during the cyclone, protecting doors and windows, removing loose objects from balconies and gardens, and having emergency contacts available. In the event of an incident or imminent risk, the instructions of the competent authorities must be followed immediately and, if necessary, the evacuation of the indicated locations must be carried out.

The session was attended, via videoconference, by the Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, and the President of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, Major Rui Andrade, who underlined the need for "operational coordination" and the "prompt mobilisation of rescue resources."

The President of the Government reiterated that all information on weather developments will be updated and released by the competent authorities, as well as the instructions of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, in coordination with government departments.

The Government of the Azores calls on citizens to remain vigilant, trust official sources and comply with the measures now announced, reminding them that cooperation between the authorities and the population is crucial to reducing the impact of this situation.

Order No. 2121-A/2025 of September 24, 2025

Related press release: Communiqué - Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle