Portugal is experiencing an unprecedented amount of rainfall this February, making it the rainiest month in the last 47 years as reported by the national meteorological service (IPMA). The rainfall recorded in the first half of February has already reached an astonishing 233.5 millimeters, which is 304% above the normal levels for this time of year. This significant increase in precipitation is described as nearly three times the average levels measured between 1991 and 2020.

IPMA has noted that the period from November 2022 to February 15, 2023, has been particularly wet across mainland Portugal, with over half of the regions already meeting or exceeding their annual average rainfall totals. This considerable shift in weather patterns suggests potential implications for agriculture, water management, and infrastructure, particularly as the country prepares for the implications of such extreme weather.

The increased rainfall follows a series of strong storms that impacted Portugal in January, one of which recorded the strongest wind gusts at the Monte Real airbase. The heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions point to a broader discussion regarding climate patterns in the region and may raise concerns regarding future weather events and their management in Portugal.