Portugal is set to experience a significant heatwave starting next Monday, with temperatures in some regions soaring above 40°C. The Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS) has issued a series of recommendations to help the public cope with the extreme heat.
Yellow Weather Alert Issued
The Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera (IPMA) has placed a large part of the country under a yellow weather alert due to the "persistence of high maximum temperature values." This alert will expand to cover the entire continental territory by Tuesday.
On Monday, the districts of Bragança, Viseu, Évora, Guarda, Faro, Vila Real, Setúbal, Santarém, Lisboa, Beja, Castelo Branco, and Portalegre will be under the yellow alert. Beja is expected to reach a scorching 40°C.
By Tuesday, the alert will extend to Porto, Viana do Castelo, Leiria, Aveiro, Coimbra, and Braga. Santarém is forecasted to hit a blistering 43°C.
DGS Recommendations
The DGS has urged the public to take precautions, including:
- Drinking water regularly, even if not thirsty, and avoiding alcoholic beverages.
- Staying in cool or air-conditioned environments for at least two to three hours a day.
- Avoiding direct sun exposure, especially between 11 AM and 5 PM.
- Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and after swimming.
- Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, such as sports and leisure, during peak heat hours.
Special Care for Vulnerable Groups
The DGS emphasized the need for extra care for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, chronic patients, pregnant women, and outdoor workers. Children under six months should not be exposed to direct or indirect sunlight.
Additionally, the DGS advised:
- Checking on isolated individuals, ensuring they stay hydrated and in cool environments.
- Traveling during cooler hours and avoiding leaving vehicles parked in the sun.
- Staying informed about weather conditions to take necessary precautions.
"In case of emergency, if you experience symptoms like intense sweating, fever, vomiting/nausea, or weak/rapid pulse, contact SNS 24 at 808 24 24 24 or the European emergency number 112," the DGS concluded.
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