Alert issued regarding escalating temperature levels and elevated fire hazard risk
Portugal Warns of Increased Wildfire Risk due to Soaring Temperatures
The National Authority for Civil Emergency and Civil Protection (ANECP) has issued a warning on Tuesday about a progressive rise in temperatures, extending until the end of the week, which may lead to an elevated risk of wildfires. The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) anticipates that temperatures will surpass 33°C to 35°C across most of the country until May 31.
According to the IPMA, the forthcoming days will bring high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. This week, the institute forecasts temperatures above 33°C for the majority of Portugal, northern winds, humidity levels below 30%, and tropical nights in the interior of the Center and South regions between Thursday and Saturday.
The meteorological conditions increase the risk of rural fires, especially in the interior of the North and Center regions and the South region, as stated by ANECP. In response to the elevated threat, the Special Device for Combating Rural Fires (DECIR/25) has already been mobilized, with around 8,900 operatives, more than 1,800 vehicles, and 33 aerial means on standby.
Meanwhile, the Directorate-General for Health (DGS) has also issued preventive measures to minimize heat-related health risks. DGS advises staying hydrated by drinking water regularly, abstaining from alcoholic beverages which can exacerbate dehydration, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours between 11am and 5pm.
Additionally, DGS encourages wearing loose, protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and using sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 protection, reapplied every two hours. These measures aim to protect against heat-related health risks and reduce the likelihood of wildfires during the forecasted weather conditions.
[1] The Special Rural Fighting Device (DECIR/25) is active with thousands of operatives and resources mobilized to respond to potential fires. From a health perspective, the Directorate-General for Health (DGS) recommends regularly drinking water to stay hydrated and avoiding alcoholic beverages which can further dehydrate the body. DGS also advises avoiding sun exposure during peak hours between 11am and 5pm, wearing light clothing that covers most of the body, using a hat and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection, reapplying it every two hours to prevent skin damage from UV radiation. The measures overall aim to reduce health risks from the heat and prevent wildfires which are more likely under these weather conditions in Portugal.
What measures are being taken to address the elevated wildfire risk in Portugal due to soaring temperatures? The Special Rural Fighting Device (DECIR/25) is active with thousands of operatives and resources mobilized to respond to potential fires. From a health perspective, the Directorate-General for Health (DGS) recommends regularly drinking water to stay hydrated and avoiding alcoholic beverages which can further dehydrate the body. DGS also advises avoiding sun exposure during peak hours between 11am and 5pm, wearing light clothing that covers most of the body, using a hat and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection, reapplying it every two hours to prevent skin damage from UV radiation. The measures overall aim to reduce health risks from the heat and prevent wildfires which are more likely under these weather conditions in Portugal. In addition to these health and wellness tips, practicing fitness-and-exercise and staying aware of climate-change and environmental-science may further help individuals adapt to these challenging conditions.
