Organizers of Web Summit have cancelled day two of the conference in Lisbon, Portugal, following official government advice due to the approaching Storm Charles. The decision was made overnight to ensure the safety of the 70,000 attendees expected at the massive technology and media gathering.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro stated on Tuesday that his office recommended suspending the event given the severe impact expected from two storms, Bruna and Charles. While the final decision rested with the conference organizers, they quickly agreed to follow the government’s direction.
Government Safety Directives
The Portuguese government formally advised Web Summit that day two, scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, should not take place. Officials cited specific risks including tidal flooding, severe disruption to public transport, and the danger of high winds affecting external structures.
Web Summit confirmed it had discussed the situation with the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) and the Public Security Police (PSP). The organizers stated they respect the government’s direction and will not proceed with Wednesday’s activities.
Local authorities have already begun implementing safety measures across the city. Schools and shops in Lisbon are closed, and non-essential public services are shutting down. Some flights have been delayed or cancelled as the storm system moves into the region.
Expected Resumption on Thursday
Despite the cancellation of the second day, organizers expect the conference to resume on Thursday, November 12. Web Summit is working with local authorities and emergency services to monitor weather conditions and ensure the venue remains safe for the remaining days of the event.
The schedule for day three includes a session featuring SAG-AFTRA president Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. The talk, titled “Hollywood’s Identity Crisis,” is moderated by Deadline and will proceed as planned unless weather conditions worsen further.
Web Summit attracts tech leaders, politicians, media executives, and sports stars from around the world. The sudden cancellation of day two disrupts the schedule for thousands of delegates who had traveled to Lisbon for the annual gathering.
Organizers notified delegates and speakers of the cancellation overnight. Attendees are advised to stay updated on local weather reports and follow instructions from local emergency services as the storm passes through the area.
Source: Deadline
