Storm Charles Forces Web Summit to Cancel Second Day

Web Summit’s second day in Lisbon was called off on November 11 as Storm Charles threatened the city. The conference, scheduled for November 9 to 12, draws more than 70,000 attendees from over 150 countries, including technology leaders and politicians.

Organizers said they acted after receiving formal advice from Portugal’s government. The concerns included coastal flooding, major interruptions to transit, and strong winds that could affect outdoor structures. The decision followed discussions with the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority and the Public Security Police.

Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro said his office had recommended suspending Web Summit events because of the expected effects of storms Bruna and Charles. He said the final call belonged to the organizers, who chose to follow the advice.

The storm response also included closures of schools and shops in Lisbon, reductions to local transport and non-essential public services, and delays and cancellations affecting some flights. Organizers said they were coordinating with authorities and emergency services and intended to hold the conference’s third day on November 12, subject to conditions. Attendees and others affected were to receive direct updates.