Persistent extreme weather advisory remains in effect
Scorching Heatwave Continues Across Portugal
Portugal is currently experiencing a prolonged heatwave, with maximum temperatures forecast to reach up to 44°C in parts of mainland Portugal, particularly in inland regions. Coastal areas are expected to experience lower maximums of 28 to 36°C [1].
The heatwave, which began in early August, is expected to continue until at least the weekend (August 9–11), with maximum temperatures predicted to remain high, ranging between 30 and 38°C across most of mainland Portugal [2]. Some areas, such as the interior south and the Tagus and Douro river valleys, could see temperatures as high as 43°C. Minimum temperatures inland are expected to stay above 20°C, extending to the southern interior by the weekend [2].
The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued weather warnings to advise the public of the ongoing heatwave. Eight districts have been placed under orange warnings due to dangerously high heat, particularly in inland territories [3]. This indicates a high risk level associated with the ongoing heatwave, which sanctions preparedness and caution.
Braga, Porto, and Viana do Castelo will be under a yellow warning after 6 pm. due to persistent high maximum temperatures in the interior of the district. Braga is expected to reach 41°C today [1]. Bragança and Vila Real will be under an orange warning, the second most severe, due to very high maximum temperatures after 6 pm. [1]. Guarda and Viseu will remain at orange warning level for today [1].
The remaining districts on the mainland, excluding Faro, are under a yellow warning due to persistently high maximum temperatures [1]. Aveiro and Coimbra will be under a yellow warning starting this afternoon [2]. The yellow warnings in the mainland will last throughout the day, except for the districts of Leiria, Lisbon, and Setúbal, which will have no warnings starting at 6 pm. today [1].
The archipelagos of the Azores are not under warnings today [1]. The archipelagos of Madeira are also not under warnings [1].
IPMA attributes the heatwave to a persistent anticyclone north of the Azores and a depression between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, bringing hot dry air from North Africa [2].
This continued heatwave warrants attention to health and safety measures. It is crucial to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
| District/Area | Max Temp Forecast (ºC) | Min Temp Forecast (ºC) | Warning Level | |---------------------------------|---------------------------------|----------------------------------------|--------------------------------| | Inland mainland (north, central, south) | 36–44 (early Aug), 30–39 (post Aug 6), up to 43 (Aug 9-11) | Generally >20 (especially interiors) | Orange warnings in 8 districts | | Coastal strip | 21–36 | Not specifically noted | Lower max temps, less severe warning | | Tagus & Douro river valleys | Up to 43 | >20 | Included in orange warning areas| | Algarve (sea temperatures) | Land heat: up to 34 (Aug 13) | Sea: 23–24 | No specific warning noted for Algarve |
[1] Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) [2] The Weather Channel [3] The Guardian [4] The Local Portugal
- The ongoing heatwave in Portugal, according to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), is due to a persistent anticyclone north of the Azores and a depression between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, leading to the forecast for maximum temperatures reaching up to 44°C in parts of mainland Portugal.
- Weather forecasting by IPMA has resulted in weather warnings being issued, with eight districts placed under orange warnings due to dangerously high heat, particularly in inland territories, advising the public of the ongoing heatwave.
