Tolls suspended after Storm Kristin

The consequences of Storm Kristin continue to be felt in several areas of the country and, in order to minimize the impacts on population mobility, the Government has moved forward with an exceptional measure: the suspension of toll payments on several motorways located in the most affected regions.

The decision was announced following an on-the-ground assessment of the constraints caused by the severe weather, particularly on national roads and secondary routes, which forced many drivers to use alternatives that are normally subject to tolls.

Motorways covered by the toll exemption

The suspension of toll payments applies to specific sections of the A8, A17, A14, and A19 motorways, all located in areas where Storm Kristin caused significant difficulties to road traffic, especially in the district of Leiria and surrounding areas.

These roads have been used as alternative routes to roads that were restricted or temporarily impassable, leading the Government to consider it essential to ease costs for those who need to travel daily, whether for personal, professional, or support reasons related to on-the-ground operations.

When it comes into force and for how long

The measure came into force from midnight on February 3 and will last for a period of seven consecutive days. During this time, drivers can travel on the covered sections without any toll charges.

The objective is clear: to facilitate mobility, support affected populations, and allow emergency vehicles, technical teams, and citizens in general to move more quickly and with less financial burden.

A coordinated response between the Government and concessionaires

It is worth noting that motorway concessionaires, namely Brisa, had already expressed their willingness to apply a possible exemption if such a decision were taken by the Government. This coordination allowed the measure to be implemented swiftly, responding to an exceptional situation caused by extreme weather conditions.

What you should keep in mind

The exemption applies only to the defined sections and during the announced period, so it is advisable to follow official updates and confirm whether your usual route is included in the suspension. Once the seven days have ended, the normal toll regime will be resumed.

In a context where the car remains essential to the daily lives of many Portuguese people, especially outside major urban centers, this measure represents direct and immediate support for those who need to continue traveling safely after the passage of Storm Kristin.