Key facts
- Portugal is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures expected to reach up to 45°C.
- The heatwave is attributed to a mass of hot, dry air from North Africa.
- The hottest day is anticipated to be June 12, with highs between 35-40°C.
- Night-time temperatures are also forecast to rise significantly.
- A yellow heat warning has been issued by the IPMA.
Portugal is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures set to soar between June 10 and 14. A mass of hot, dry air originating from North Africa is expected to sweep across the Iberian Peninsula, causing a sharp increase in temperatures. On Portugal Day, temperatures are already ranging between 25 and 35°C, which is considered normal for this time of year, just days before the summer solstice on June 21.
From June 11, a more substantial temperature rise is anticipated, with some areas potentially seeing an increase of around 10 degrees Celsius, pushing values as high as 45°C. The eve of Saint Anthony's Day, June 12, is predicted to be the peak of the heatwave, with maximum temperatures generally expected to be between 35 and 40°C across most of the country. Night-time temperatures are also forecast to rise, with some regions likely to experience lows close to or exceeding 20°C through the night of June 13 to 14.
The IPMA has explained that the perceived heat will be intensified by a reduction in wind strength. These high temperatures are projected to persist until Saturday, June 13, with a slight decrease expected from June 14 onwards. Consequently, the IPMA has placed the entire country under a yellow heat warning.