The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) issued a yellow weather warning on Monday for much of the country due to persistent high temperatures, expanding it to the entire mainland on Tuesday.
On Monday, the districts of Bragança, Viseu, Évora, Guarda, Faro, Vila Real, Setúbal, Santarém, Lisbon, Beja, Castelo Branco, and Portalegre are under yellow alert. Temperatures in Beja are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius.
On Tuesday, Porto, Viana do Castelo, Leiria, Aveiro, Coimbra, and Braga will also be included. On this day, Santarém is forecast to see temperatures peak at 43 degrees Celsius.
Minimum temperatures will hover around 20 degrees Celsius across most areas.
The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) issued a notice addressing the situation, recommending measures to cope with the heat. These include drinking water frequently, even without feeling thirsty, and avoiding alcoholic beverages. It’s advised to stay in cool or air-conditioned environments, with shade and airflow, for at least two to three hours daily.
The public is urged to avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., use sunscreen with a factor of 30 or higher, reapply it every two hours, and after swimming at the beach or pool.
The DGS suggests wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers most of the body, as well as hats and sunglasses with UV protection, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities.
Travel during cooler hours is recommended, and staying in sun-exposed parked vehicles should be avoided.
Special attention should be given to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, chronically ill persons, pregnant women, and outdoor workers. Ensure that children drink water frequently and stay in cool, ventilated environments.
Children under six months should not be exposed to direct or indirect sunlight.
The public is also encouraged to check on and assist the elderly and those living alone, ensuring they remain hydrated and in cool, airy spaces. Stay informed about weather conditions to take necessary precautions.
In emergencies, if symptoms like heavy sweating, fever, nausea, vomiting, or weak/rapid pulse occur, contact SNS 24 at 808 24 24 24 or the European emergency number 112.
