Portugal bracing for extreme heat before cooling front ahead of São João celebrations

Portugal is set to experience one of the hottest days of the year on Tuesday, 23 June, with interior temperatures forecast to reach up to 43 °C in areas such as the Vale do Douro and Beira Baixa. Coastal regions, including Porto, will remain considerably cooler thanks to maritime influence.

A cold front is expected to arrive on Wednesday, 24 June, bringing a shift to cooler air, rain, thunderstorms and possible hail across the country. By Thursday, 25 June, temperatures are projected to fall by 4‑9 °C, especially in interior districts, creating a markedly cooler night for the São João festivities. The national aviation authority has limited the launch of hot‑air balloons to the period 21:45 – 01:00 to ensure safety.

Overall, the weather pattern will transition from an extreme heat episode to a more temperate condition, affecting outdoor celebrations and daily life throughout Portugal.