Intense Heat and Thunderstorms in Portugal: Captivating Purple and Brilliant Northern Skies Shown in Photos
Portugal is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with the country's temperatures reaching unprecedented levels, according to the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA). The heatwave has been ongoing since the second week of June and shows no signs of abating soon, particularly in inland areas.
The country registered 69 excess deaths during the heat alert that began on 28 June 2025, indicating the potential dangers posed by the extreme heat conditions. The IPMA had predicted the possibility of thunderstorms, and indeed, thunderstorms have occurred in the districts of Vila Real and Bragança. However, there are no immediate predictions for significant precipitation in the main forecast period.
The heatwave has led to the setting of a new national temperature record for June. On 29 June, around 82% of meteorological stations recorded maximum air temperature values above 35°C, and on Sunday, 37% of stations reached maximum values above 40°C. The absolute maximum temperature of 46.6°C, recorded in Mora, Évora district, remains the highest ever recorded in the country, which was previously recorded on 1 August 2003 in Amareleja, Beja.
The hot and dry conditions are contributing to a high risk of wildfires, with 80 municipalities currently at the maximum level of risk. The heatwave has been so intense that seven districts are under yellow alert due to heat on Friday (Braga, Vila Real, Guarda, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Évora, and Beja).
Maximum temperatures are expected to reach 38°C in Castelo Branco and Santarém on Friday, while in the capital, Lisbon, maximum temperatures are expected to reach 32°C. In the south, including the Algarve, Faro, maximum temperatures are expected to reach 27°C. In the north, minimum temperatures will vary, ranging from about 16°C in Braga and Viana do Castelo to about 23°C in Faro.
Despite the intense heatwave, the IPMA predicts some weather instability in the longer term, potentially leading to dry thunderstorms in interior regions. The weather forecast suggests continued hot and dry conditions, with some slight variations in temperature. The heatwave is expected to continue, especially in inland areas, making it crucial for individuals to take precautions to stay safe and hydrated during this period.
In light of the ongoing heatwave, mariners navigating Portuguese waters should be aware of the potential impact of the intense weather conditions on sea state. Furthermore, sailors planning sailing trips along the Portuguese coast should closely monitor the weather forecast for any changes that may affect their journey, as the high temperatures could potentially lead to sudden thunderstorms over the homes in Vila Real and Bragança.
