Portugal is experiencing a severe heatwave, which is expected to last until at least August 17. With temperatures likely reaching 41°C (106°F) on mainland Portugal and 25-39°C (77-102°F) in coastal and island regions, the excessive heat is exacerbating the existing issues of wildfires and transportation disruptions.
Extended heatwave with regional warnings
The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued high-temperature warnings in several regions. From August 16 to 17, orange warnings will be in effect for the Beja, Evora, and Portalegre districts, as well as the mountainous and southern parts of Madeira.
Yellow warnings extend to Castelo Branco, Faro, and the northern coast of Madeira, with additional alerts issued in Braga, Coimbra, Leiria, Lisbon, Santarém, Setúbal, and the Azores until mid-August. These warnings indicate that the continuous and oppressive heat would certainly exacerbate current difficulties.
Wildfires and travel chaos
The high heat has played a crucial role in Madeira’s wildfire catastrophe. More than 5,000 hectares of woodland have been devastated by flames fuelled by high temperatures and strong winds. The scenario has necessitated the evacuation of hundreds of inhabitants and tourists.
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport in Madeira has been badly hit, with over 80 flights cancelled due to strong weather. The airport has become a makeshift dormitory for stranded travellers, including over 500 Poles, many of whom are experiencing uncomfortable conditions and a lack of assistance from airport personnel.
Health risks and infrastructure impacts
The prolonged heatwave poses major health concerns, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures raises the risk of heat stroke and exhaustion.
The heatwave also disrupts daily life and infrastructure: railway rails may buckle, resulting in train delays, while road surfaces and automobiles may be damaged. High temperatures could boost electricity demand, potentially resulting in localised brownouts or blackouts.
Emergency response and ongoing challenges
Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and may issue further alerts or amend existing warnings should situations change. Emergency services continue to battle the wildfires, with expert personnel from mainland Portugal assisting with containment efforts. Travellers and residents are encouraged to take the appropriate steps to cope with the heat and stay safe during this extended period of harsh weather.
