Approaching heat wave in Portugal, with temperatures potentially reaching 44 degrees Celsius
Portugal Braces for Severe Heat Wave
Portugal is currently experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures expected to soar above 40°C (104°F) across much of the mainland from July 31 to August 6. The Algarve region, however, is forecast to remain cooler.
This heat wave is noteworthy for its duration and intensity. Temperatures in central and southern Portugal, similar to those in neighboring Spain, are predicted to reach levels well above 40°C. This puts multiple areas at risk of extreme heat conditions.
The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (IPMA) has issued a "considerably severe hot weather episode" warning, suggesting elevated heat warnings are in effect. While the exact warning categories (such as red or orange alerts) for particular regions were not specified, residents should expect strong heat-related warnings and take appropriate precautions.
The heat wave is also associated with increased wildfire risk and substantial impacts on energy demand and infrastructure. As seen in the broader 2025 European heatwave context, similar extreme temperatures led to spikes in power consumption and energy prices.
As of Saturday morning, 17 districts in mainland Portugal are under a yellow warning due to high maximum temperatures. These include Bragança, Viseu, Évora, Porto, Guarda, Vila Real, Setúbal, Santarem, Viana do Castelo, Lisbon, Leiria, Beja, Castelo Branco, Aveiro, Coimbra, Portalegre, and Braga. The district of Faro will be under a yellow warning between 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Starting Sunday, high temperatures are expected to range between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius across the mainland, except along the coast where they will be lower. The IPMA has placed all districts in mainland Portugal, except Faro, under an orange warning between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, due to "persistent high maximum temperatures."
The orange warning is issued by the IPMA whenever there is a "moderate to high risk meteorological situation." The yellow warning is issued when there is a risk situation for certain activities dependent on the meteorological situation.
During this heat wave, it's crucial for residents to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. It's also important to check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses, to ensure they are staying cool and safe.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
Scientists in Portugal are closely monitoring the impact of the severe heat wave on the environment, particularly in the field of environmental science, as high temperatures may affect local wildlife and ecosystems.
Given the prolonged and intense nature of the heat wave, experts in Portugal are cautioning residents about the increased risk of wildfires and urging them to take precautions to reduce energy consumption and prevent power grid failures.
