Portugal’s presidential runoff election between Socialist António José Seguro and far-right candidate André ventura is proceeding despite widespread disruption from severe storms that have battered the country for weeks. Authorities have been forced to postpone voting in several areas due to hazardous conditions,impacting tens of thousands of voters. The challenging weather, which has claimed thirteen lives directly and indirectly since January 28, is adding an unprecedented layer of complexity to the election as citizens attempt to exercise their democratic right.
Portuguese voters are casting ballots Sunday, February 8, 2026, in a presidential runoff election that pits Socialist candidate António José Seguro against far-right contender André Ventura. The election will determine the successor to current President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who is term-limited after serving two consecutive mandates.
The vote comes after a challenging period for the Iberian nation, with severe storms and widespread flooding disrupting daily life in recent weeks. Polling stations opened at 8:00 a.m. local time for approximately 11 million eligible voters both in Portugal and abroad, and will close at 7:00 p.m. Initial projections based on exit polls are expected around 8:00 p.m. Pre-election surveys suggest Seguro, who led the first round of voting on January 18, is favored to win with a comfortable margin over Ventura.
Severe Weather Impacts Election
Voting has been postponed in several localities due to the recent extreme weather. A total of 36,852 voters in Alcácer do Sal, Arruda dos Vinhos, and Golegã will now cast their ballots on February 15. Voting has also been delayed at some polling stations in Santarém, Rio Maior, Leiria, Cartaxo, and Salvaterra de Magos.
While conditions are expected to improve throughout the day, the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has forecast continued rain, particularly in the afternoon, with snowfall possible in higher elevations and strong wind gusts along the coast and in mountainous areas.
The election campaign has been overshadowed by the devastating storms that have impacted the country since January 28, resulting in seven fatalities and six indirect deaths linked to storm-related accidents, including falls from roofs during repair work. The disruption highlights the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events globally.
lgc (afp, efe)
