Heatwave Shatters June Temperature Record in Portugal: 46.6°C Recorded

A scorching heatwave has set a new record in Portugal, with temperatures soaring to 46.6°C in Mora, Évora district, marking the highest June temperature ever recorded in the country. This surpasses the previous June record of 44.9°C set in Alcácer do Sal in 2017 and nears the all-time national high of 47.3°C recorded in Amareleja, Beja, in August 2003.

Despite the extreme temperatures, meteorologist Paula Leitão from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) states that this heatwave is not unusual for this time of year. The hot weather is expected to persist for several more days, with a slight temperature drop forecasted from July 3rd.

However, the heat doesn't always mean clear skies. Thunderstorms and hail were reported in several inland districts north of Évora this Sunday. Leitão explains, "At the top of vertical development clouds, temperatures can drop to -50°C, leading to ice formation that reaches the ground as hail," a phenomenon she describes as "quite normal."

The combination of high temperatures and unstable weather increases the risk of wildfires, with dry surface air and unpredictable wind gusts from thunderstorms posing significant threats. Although lightning strikes are unlikely to start fires, the IPMA has placed seven districts under red alert until Monday evening due to the extreme fire risk.

Wildfires in Castelo Branco and Torres Novas

Two wildfires erupted on Sunday in forested areas of Castelo Branco and Torres Novas, mobilizing 300 personnel and ten aircraft. Fortunately, there were no injuries or homes damaged. The fires are under investigation, with authorities noting some precipitation and thunderstorms in the area.

In response to the heightened fire risk, the National Republican Guard (GNR) has activated an additional 150 surveillance posts, supplementing the 80 already in operation since May 5th as part of the Safe Forest 2025 operation.