Lisbon, Aug 2 – Mainland Portugal will enter a state of alert from Sunday amid an intense heatwave and a rising risk of wildfires, with temperatures forecast to climb as high as 44°C.
Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral announced the alert on Saturday, cautioning citizens about “difficult days ahead.” As part of emergency measures, firefighting forces and security services will be reinforced. Activities likely to spark fires—including burning, certain machinery use, and fireworks—will be temporarily banned, Xinhua reported.
The alert will remain in effect through Wednesday as Portugal experiences a “considerably severe heatwave,” with most areas expected to see maximum temperatures ranging between 36°C and 40°C. In some parts of the country, readings may reach 45°C. A mass of hot air from North Africa is driving these extreme temperatures, with “tropical nights,” where temperatures remain above 20°C, also predicted.
Currently, 39 wildfires are active across the country, including nine major blazes stretching from the north to the south, according to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC). Critical situations have been reported in Penamacor, Arouca, Santarem, and Ponte da Barca, where nearby communities face significant danger.
ANEPC commander Elisio Pereira stressed that protecting people is the top priority. However, he said the need to safeguard homes forces resources to be dispersed, complicating firefighting operations.
Despite the escalating situation, ANEPC stated there are no immediate plans to further reinforce ground teams overnight. Additional personnel and equipment have already been sent to the worst-hit areas. As of the latest update, 2,731 operatives and 881 land vehicles are actively engaged in tackling the nine largest fires. Twenty people, including 14 firefighters, have received medical treatment for fire-related injuries.
Authorities have urged vigilance as extreme weather persists.
