In recent weeks, mainland Portugal was affected by two depressions – Davide and Emilia – which brought rain, as well as cold and snow. But, what will the weather be like in the coming week?
The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) forecasts “precipitation due to the passage of cold fronts at the beginning and end of the week” on the mainland.
In the highlands of the North and Center, snowfall is possible.
After a weekend with “milder temperatures,” a “drop is expected at the beginning of the week.”
“During the week, maximum temperatures will range between 5°C and 18°C (higher in the Algarve and Alentejo Coastal areas) and minimum temperatures between -1°C and 11°C (lower in the North and Center interior), with possible values reaching -4°C in the Serra da Estrela region,” the IPMA noted.
The IPMA also warns that on the western coast, “there will continue to be periods of strong maritime agitation, with waves reaching 4 to 5 meters in significant height at the beginning of the week.”
Cold? Recall Civil Protection’s Tips on Staying Warm
The drop in temperatures also means an increase in thermal discomfort, and Civil Protection has shared some tips to stay safe.
In a social media post, the agency starts by reminding the public to avoid prolonged exposure to cold and sudden temperature changes.
It continues by emphasizing the importance of keeping the body warm with several layers of clothing, particularly protecting extremities with the use of gloves, hats, scarves, warm socks, and shoes.
Nutrition also requires attention, with a need to stay hydrated by consuming soups and hot drinks.
One should also exercise caution with outdoor activities, keep the house warm, but ensure proper ventilation; avoid using heating devices during sleep, always turning off any appliances before bedtime.
Civil Protection also reminded that “many urban fires result from failures in the electrical network, gas network, or improper use of heating equipment.”
They provide the following alerts:
- Keep heaters away from furniture;
- Do not dry clothes on heaters;
- Before going to bed or leaving the house, check if heating equipment is turned off;
- Do not leave candles lit or poorly extinguished;
- Avoid electrical overload;
- Never extinguish an electrical origin fire with water;
- Never leave home with the stove or water heater on;
- Turn off Christmas lights during the night.
- In case of fire, call 112.
