Alerts issued for seven districts on Sunday due to intense heatwave conditions
Heatwave Alert: Stay Safe and Healthy in Portugal
The seven districts of Continental Portugal - Lisbon, Setubal, Portalegre, Beja, Evora, Santarem, and Castelo Branco - will be under a severe red alert this Sunday due to scorching temperatures. The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issued this warning, expecting maximum temperatures to soar above 40 degrees Celsius and nighttime lows to barely drop below 30 degrees 1.
The southern region, Tejo Valley, and Douro Valley are expected to have temperatures above 40°C, while the northern and central coastal areas will be cooler 1. This red alert will continue until 9:00 PM on Monday for five out of the seven districts 1.
The remaining districts on mainland Portugal are under the second most severe orange alert or the less severe yellow alert 1. According to the IPMA, maximum temperatures will range between 35 and 40°C across most of the country, excluding certain northern and central coastal areas 1.
The IPMA also suggests that conditions will become unstable, with increased cloud cover and the possibility of scattered showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the interior regions during Sunday afternoon 1. Additionally, the risk of wildfires remains high, with campfires and agricultural machinery usage prohibited due to potential dry storms with lightning 1.
During such intense heatwaves, it's crucial to prioritize health and safety measures to avoid heat-related risks. Here are some recommendations:
- Stay in cool or air-conditioned environments for at least two to three hours daily to minimize heat exposure 4.
- Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (11:00 AM - 5:00 PM), when the sun is strongest 4.
- Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating 4.
- Wear light, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to stay cool 4.
- Cover most of the body and wear a hat and sunglasses offering ultraviolet protection 4.
In terms of hydration and health, it's important to drink plenty of water regularly to stay hydrated, and steer clear of alcoholic beverages that exacerbate dehydration 4. Also, try to avoid outdoor physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day and travel during cooler hours while avoiding staying in parked vehicles exposed to the sun 4.
Children, elderly, chronically ill individuals, pregnant women, and outdoor workers should receive additional attention 4. Keep babies under six months old out of direct or indirect sunlight altogether 4.
Given that two-thirds of Portugal, including Lisbon, is at high alert for heat and wildfires, be vigilant for fire warnings and evacuation instructions from local authorities 2. Avoid activities that may cause wildfires, and adhere to safety instructions during these critical periods.
Following these guidelines will help reduce the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related health problems while also addressing wildfire risks 4. This comprehensive approach is recommended by Portugal’s Directorate-General for Health and meteorological authorities during red alert heatwaves 4.
- Understanding the extreme weather conditions, it's essential to prioritize environmental-science measures to mitigate the risks of wildfires during the heatwave in Portugal.
- Given the predicted soaring temperatures across Portugal, it's crucial to shift our focus towards science-based strategies to ensure our health and safety, particularly in areas under severe red alerts such as Lisbon.
