Portugal Braces for Intense Heatwave With Temperatures Soaring over 41ºC

Portugal is once again facing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to climb as high as 41ºC, potentially making August the hottest month in the past 15 to 20 years, experts warn.

Red Heat Alerts Issued in Northern Portugal

Several northern districts, including Viana do Castelo, Braga, Porto, Vila Real, and Bragança, have been placed under red alert — the highest level on the Portuguese Meteorological Institute’s (IPMA) scale. The alert comes in response to persistently extreme maximum temperatures, particularly inland, though coastal areas remain slightly cooler.

According to IPMA, minimum temperatures will range from 16ºC in Sines and Leiria to 24ºC in Portalegre, while maximums are forecast to range from 28ºC in Aveiro to a scorching 41ºC in Braga and Évora.

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“Hottest August in Decades,” Says Climatologist

Climatologist Mário Marques, speaking to CNN Portugal, said August 2025 could be the hottest in 15 to 20 years, especially when considering both minimum and maximum temperature trends.

From 10 August onward, temperatures could rise even further due to a strong and persistent anticyclone affecting the Iberian Peninsula. Marques emphasized that although the anticyclone may shift slightly, its impact will be significant.

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Wildfires Escalate Across the North

Portugal has also entered a state of alert due to the high fire risk. On Monday night, residents in Pardelhas (Mondim de Basto) were alarmed as flames came dangerously close to the village.

Simultaneously, the fire reached Pena (Vila Real). According to SIC Notícias, local residents were shocked to find no firefighters in the area, as crews were overwhelmed and engaged elsewhere.

This major fire, which started over the weekend in Vila Real and spread to Mondim de Basto, is currently the country’s most critical blaze. As of early Tuesday, over 600 firefighters and 211 vehicles were battling the flames.

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Lisbon Facing a Sweltering Future

Looking ahead, experts warn that Lisbon could experience up to 50 days per year with temperatures above 35ºC by the end of this century. A team of specialists in urban planning and climate sustainability has issued a stark warning and presented a roadmap to Lisbon City Council for climate adaptation.

Among their proposals:

• Develop “sponge city” infrastructures to retain rainwater and cool urban areas.

• Revise existing regulations and create incentives for green innovation.

• Implement long-term strategies to mitigate rising urban heat.

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Conclusion:
With record-breaking temperatures, worsening wildfires, and long-term climate concerns, Portugal is facing a pivotal moment. Immediate action on emergency response, infrastructure, and environmental planning will be key to managing both the current crisis and future challenges.

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