Portugal braces for deadly heat wave as temperatures exceed 40°C

Portugal's Directorate-General of Health warned that a prolonged heat wave with maximum temperatures above 40 °C and nighttime lows above 20 °C is expected to increase mortality in the coming days. The heat is forecast to affect almost the entire country, including densely populated coastal areas, raising concerns for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children and people with chronic illnesses. Health authorities recommend staying out of direct sun, keeping shutters closed during the hottest periods, and ensuring ventilation when outdoor temperatures drop at night. They also affirmed that health services are prepared for a possible rise in demand, with local seasonal response plans already in place.