Portugal faces 10-day heatwave with temperatures hitting 43°C

Tuesday, 30 June 2026AI summary
Portugal faces 10-day heatwave with temperatures hitting 43°C
Photo: ECO

The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera or IPMA) has warned of a severe heatwave lasting eight to 10 days across almost the entire country. Temperatures are expected to exceed 40°C in many areas, with nighttime relief unlikely, prompting health and meteorology experts to urge caution.

Context & Explainers

A red warning is the highest alert level issued by Portugal's weather agency, the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere (Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera or IPMA), used when conditions pose a very high risk to life and property. Under a red warning authorities may close roads, suspend transport and advise people to avoid coastal and flood‑prone areas, so follow civil protection instructions during the Friday–Saturday storm period.