Portugal records unprecedented heatwave frequency in 2026

Portugal has experienced a record-breaking year for extreme temperatures in 2026. According to the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA), mainland Portugal has already recorded nine heatwaves between February and October.

The year has also set a new historical record for the total number of days affected by heatwaves, reaching 98 days. This surpasses the previous record of 97 days set in 2009 and the 91 days recorded in 2017. The 2026 episodes have been characterized by their high frequency, duration, and wide geographic spread, with heatwaves occurring as early as late February.