The contenders are socialist Antonio Jose Seguro and far-right leader Andre Ventura, after a first round in which no candidate achieved an absolute majority.

According to the agency, the day is proceeding normally, although some localities postponed voting due to severe storms affecting the country.

The new president, who will be commander-in-chief of the armed forces, will replace Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who served two consecutive terms.

Local analysts emphasize that this runoff, the first since 1986, shows the fragmentation and rise of conservative forces within the European Union and point out that, despite forecasts favoring Seguro, voter turnout and the rural vote will be key given the adverse weather conditions.

jdt/jav/oda/amp