Portugal's CP suspends six Intercidades trains as heat wave sparks fire risk

Comboios de Portugal (CP) cancelled six Intercidades services each day from Friday through Sunday, citing extreme heat and fire‑risk concerns. The operator said the high temperatures affect railway infrastructure beyond the rolling stock, warning that "os efeitos das altas temperaturas não se limitam ao material circulante" and that the risk of fire can cause temporary train interruptions. CP also noted that "algumas séries de material circulante, em virtude da sua antiguidade, apresentam limitações face aos atuais padrões de climatização" and introduced preventive measures such as blocking ticket sales during the hottest periods, providing extra water at stations, and monitoring climate‑control equipment. Affected passengers can request free ticket changes or refunds.

The heat wave has pushed temperatures above 40 °C across much of Portugal, with red alerts in districts including Lisbon, Setúbal, Santarém, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Évora and Beja. Nighttime temperatures remain unusually high, raising health risks especially for the elderly; authorities warn that heat‑related disorientation can increase disappearances among older adults. The government has extended the state of alert and prepared fire‑prevention actions, while health officials advise hydration, limiting outdoor exposure, and using cooling strategies at home. Forecasts indicate a gradual cooling early next week but warn that extreme heat could return later in the month.