Portugal declares maximum fire danger for 23 municipalities amid heatwave

The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) placed 23 municipalities across the districts of Bragança, Castelo Branco, Santarém, Portalegre and Faro in the highest fire‑danger category as a heat wave brings temperatures of 40‑44 °C, low humidity and winds of 30‑40 km/h. Interior regions are expected to reach up to 44 °C, with night‑time temperatures remaining above 20 °C, raising the risk of wildfires and heat‑related health issues.

Internal Affairs Minister Luís Neves warned that “drastic decisions” could be taken if the fire‑danger level worsens, urging the public to avoid risky behaviours such as agricultural burning, fireworks and the traditional release of hot‑air balloons during the upcoming São João festivities. A yellow weather alert was issued for seven districts – Bragança, Vila Real, Guarda, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Évora and Beja – covering the weekend.

In response, the Médio Tejo intermunicipal community has pre‑emptively reinforced its Rural Fire‑Fighting Device, adding three new ground teams (total 21) and a large‑capacity vessel equipped with water cannons for operations on the Castelo de Bode reservoir and the Tagus River, alongside aerial support.