Portugal records highest drowning deaths in a decade

Portugal has recorded 92 drowning deaths between January and July 2026, marking the highest number for this period in the last decade. According to provisional data from the Drowning Observatory of the Portuguese Federation of Lifesavers (FEPONS), this represents a 15% increase compared to the 80 deaths recorded during the same period in 2025.

Rivers were the most frequent site of fatalities, accounting for 35 deaths, followed by the sea with 27. Together, these two environments represent 67.4% of the total. Other recorded locations include dams (6), domestic swimming pools (6), wells (5), flooded roads (4), and sheltered ports (4).

The data highlights that drowning risks extend beyond traditional beach areas to various aquatic environments. FEPONS has emphasized the urgent need for a National Drowning Prevention Strategy, noting that while individual responsibility is important, the state and local authorities must improve prevention, signage, and safety measures in diverse aquatic spaces.