IPMA Warns of Soaring Temperatures and Heightened Fire Risk Across Portugal Next Week

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a warning about a gradual temperature rise starting Tuesday across mainland Portugal, accompanied by an increased Rural Fire Danger (PIR). Some southern municipalities may reach the maximum classification.

Rising Temperatures and Fire Risk

• Temperatures are already above the climatological norm for May across most of the country, with a significant rise expected on May 29 and 30.
• Maximum temperatures are forecast to exceed 30°C from Tuesday, May 27, except in some western coastal areas, with southern regions and the Tagus valley seeing over 35°C.
• Minimum temperatures will also climb, though some northern and central areas may still experience lows below 10°C until Monday, gradually rising above 15°C nationwide.

Meteorological Conditions

• The hot and dry weather is due to a mass of warm air from North Africa, leading to mostly clear skies. Some cloudiness may occur in northern and central regions during early mornings, especially early in the week and along the coast.
• Winds will predominantly come from the north, weak to moderate, occasionally shifting to the east during early mornings. Stronger winds are expected on the west coast and highlands, particularly in the afternoons, weakening towards May 29 and 30.

Additional Concerns

• The UV radiation index will remain very high, typical for this time of year near the summer solstice and given the lack of cloud cover.
• The increasing fire risk may impose restrictions on rural activities, especially in southern areas where the danger is highest.