Heatwave Alert: 12 Portuguese Districts Under Orange Warning as Temperatures Soar to 45°C

Weekend brings scorching temperatures, rain, and thunderstorms

Twelve of the 18 districts in mainland Portugal are under an orange warning from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) due to extreme heat, rain, and thunderstorms. The remaining districts - Viana do Castelo, Braga, Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra, and Leiria - are under a yellow warning until Monday. In response to the heat, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection has announced enhanced readiness levels for rural firefighting efforts.

Temperatures to exceed 40°C in several locations

Maximum temperatures are expected to surpass 40°C in various areas, with Portel forecasted to hit 45°C, and Castro Verde, Mértola, Moura, Serpa, Mourão, Mora, and Reguengos de Monsaraz reaching 44°C. Lisbon is expected to see 42°C on Sunday, while Setúbal could reach 43°C. The hot weather is predicted to continue into the next week, particularly in inland regions, according to IPMA forecasts.

Health and safety advice amid extreme heat

The extreme heat has prompted health advice from the Directorate-General of Health, including staying hydrated and avoiding direct sun exposure between 11:00 and 17:00. The risk of rural fires has put Civil Protection on high alert, with increased resources deployed. Citizens are urged to avoid activities that could ignite fires, such as using combustion engine machinery or open flames.

Symptoms to watch for

Exposure to excessive heat can lead to health issues, especially in at-risk groups like chronic patients or children. Symptoms such as intense sweating, fever, vomiting/nausea, or rapid/weak pulse should prompt immediate contact with SNS24 (808242424) or 112.

Dust in the air

The hot air mass from North Africa brings suspended dust, advising those with respiratory diseases to limit time spent outdoors.

Europe-wide heatwave

High temperatures are also forecasted across several European countries, particularly in the south (Spain, France, Italy, Greece). London is expected to reach 29°C tomorrow.