Alert Issued: Orange Heat Warning Extended in Castelo Branco, Guarda, and Bragança until Friday
Alert Situation Extended Across Portugal Due to Wildfire Risk
In response to the increased risk of wildfires, the Portuguese government has extended the alert situation, initially scheduled to end on Wednesday, until the end of next Friday. This decision was made due to the high temperatures and the decrease in ignitions resulting from the prohibitions.
Under this alert situation, burns and fires, including those with authorized permits for the current period, are suspended. The prohibitions also extend to the performance of work in forest and rural areas using machinery and the use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices.
The districts of Castelo Branco, Guarda, and Bragança will be under an orange alert due to heat until the end of Friday, according to the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA). Vila Real and Viseu are under yellow alert until 6:00 AM on Thursday, changing to orange alert until 6:00 PM on Thursday. In Porto, Faro, Setúbal, Viana do Castelo, Aveiro, Braga, and Lisbon, a yellow alert is in effect until the end of Thursday. The districts of Évora, Beja, and Portalegre will be under an orange alert until 6:00 PM on Thursday, changing to yellow alert until the end of Thursday.
The alert situation's measures are aimed at reducing the risk of wildfires. The prohibition of access, circulation, and presence in the interior of forest areas is in effect, as stated in the Municipal Plans for the Defense of the Forest Against Fires.
While the public is advised to adhere to these measures, it is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration during heatwaves. Persistent thirst, dark yellow or amber urine, fatigue and weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness, dry mouth and dry or sticky lips, decreased urine output, headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, and in children, irritability, heavy sweating, pale and clammy skin, and fainting, are all indicators of dehydration. Early recognition and rehydration are critical for prevention of severe heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Stay safe and hydrated during this alert period. For the latest updates, follow the instructions of local authorities and the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).
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