Storm Kristin kills 2 in Portugal as rare sting jet intensifies winds across the Iberian Peninsula

ByRishav Kothari

At least two people were killed in Portugal on January 28, 2026, as Storm Kristin brought destructive winds to the Iberian Peninsula after undergoing explosive cyclogenesis on January 27. A rare sting jet developed with the storm, intensifying hurricane-force winds.

The system swept across the Iberian Peninsula on January 27–28, producing hurricane-force winds, heavy rain, and widespread disruptions.

The government of Portugal confirmed at least two fatalities on January 28. Civil protection authorities responded to nearly 1 500 weather-related incidents across the country, including fallen trees, flooding, and power interruptions.

Schools were closed in multiple municipalities, and residents in the most affected regions were advised to remain indoors. At least 14 national roads were closed across the country due to Kristin.

The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) named Storm Kristin on January 27. The storm then began undergoing explosive cyclogenesis as it moved rapidly eastward at approximately 110 km/h (68 mph), impacting Portugal during the early morning hours of January 28.

A rare sting jet formed as the explosive cyclogenesis continued, intensifying winds across the affected regions, according to analysis by Severe Weather Europe.

A sting jet is a rare phenomenon first seen in certain mature extratropical cyclones, in which dry air intrudes into the storm’s cloud head and descends rapidly, producing a concentrated core of destructive winds.

IPMA placed several northern and central districts under red, yellow, and orange warnings for wind and rough seas as gusts reached up to 140 km/h (87 mph) on January 28. Some of the warnings will remain in effect until January 30.

Rough seas associated with the storm are expected to affect coastal areas through January 30, with wave heights along the west coast forecast to reach 5.5–8 m (18–26 feet), while localized wave heights could reach 14 m (46 feet).

As the system moved east, Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issued red and orange alerts for strong winds and rough seas affecting Galicia, Asturias, Castilla y León, and parts of Andalusia. Snowfall associated with the storm has also been affecting parts of Spain, including Madrid.

Wind gusts of over 130 km/h (81 mph) were forecast in the Almanzora Valley and Los Vélez on January 28, according to the agency.

Featured image credit: protecaocivilpt

Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.

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