An elderly British woman tragically lost her life in Portugal following a devastating ‘tornado’ that wreaked havoc on a campsite and hotel.
The 85-year-old was residing at the HolaCamp site near Albufeira in the Algarve region. The unexpected weather occurrence, occurring during the impact of Storm Claudia on Portugal, resulted in injuries to 28 individuals.
The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, was initially reported missing and later discovered deceased amidst the debris. Witnessing fierce winds causing debris to fly, other vacationers sought shelter.
Authorities have labeled the incident as an “extreme wind phenomenon.” Portugal’s meteorological agency indicated a “high probability” that it was a tornado, as reported by The Sun.
According to a source from the weather agency, “It was a phenomenon of strong winds, an extreme wind phenomenon, that affected two establishments, a campsite, and a hotel.”
Police confirmed that a total of 28 individuals sustained injuries, including citizens from the UK, Portugal, and Spain, spanning from six to 86 years old.
The twister also impacted the Hotel Eden, resulting in 19 injuries, one of which was severe. Additionally, two individuals suffered serious injuries at the campsite where the British woman met her unfortunate fate.
Portuguese president Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased victim due to the passage of Storm Claudia in Albufeira.
Albufeira mayor Rui Cristina stated, “I have been closely monitoring the situation following the windstorm that struck our area. I inspected the most affected areas today, including the campsite, where the damage is truly distressing.
“There are reports of multiple injuries and one loss of life, an 85-year-old British national. On behalf of myself and the municipality, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends.
“We are collaborating with all local resources and civil protection agencies to aid the victims and restore normalcy and safety promptly.”
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