Portugal’s Interior Faces Intense Fire Risk as Heatwave Continues
Nineteen municipalities across Portugal are currently under the highest level of fire risk, according to the Portuguese Meteorological Institute (IPMA). The affected areas are concentrated in the districts of Bragança, Guarda, Santarém, Portalegre, and Faro, where dry conditions and high temperatures have severely elevated wildfire danger.
Seven additional districts — including Lisbon and Évora — remain under yellow heat warnings until 21:00 today, with temperatures reaching 39°C in parts of Alentejo. The IPMA’s fire danger calculation methodology, which considers temperature, humidity, wind speed, and drought levels, confirms the severity of the current conditions.
Rain is forecast to arrive in northern regions, including the Minho and Beira Litoral, beginning Tuesday afternoon. Temperatures in Coimbra and Viseu are expected to drop by up to 10°C within 36 hours. However, officials caution that the ground remains extremely dry, and vegetation has not recovered from winter drought conditions, meaning the fire risk will remain elevated even after rainfall.
The 19 municipalities under maximum alert are subject to automatic restrictions on outdoor activities that could spark fires. These include bans on the use of machinery that produces sparks or flames in high-risk areas. The IPMA advises residents to avoid all non-essential outdoor activity during peak heat hours and to remain vigilant.
Fire danger levels are reviewed daily by the IPMA, and further restrictions may be imposed depending on evolving weather conditions. Residents are urged to consult official alerts on the IPMA website and to follow guidance from local authorities.
As the fire season continues, officials emphasize that prevention and awareness are critical. The coming days will be decisive in determining whether conditions improve or escalate further.
