Portugal is facing a summer marked by extreme temperatures that have drastically impacted the population. In less than a month, the country has experienced two heatwaves, with historic records and an alarming increase in the number of deaths. Between June 27 and July 2, 69 additional deaths were reported, particularly among those over 85 years old, a phenomenon that authorities have directly linked to the high temperatures.
Climatology experts, such as Carlos Câmara, warn that the situation is more severe than in previous years. According to the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere, June of this year was classified as “exceptionally warm and dry,” ranking as the third hottest June since 1931. Average temperatures were 2 °C above normal, and one-third of weather stations recorded all-time highs.
The heatwave peaked at the end of June, with Mora reaching 46.6 °C, the national record for this month. This phenomenon has affected not just the days, but nights have also been unusually warm, with Portalegre recording lows of 31.5 °C, an event virtually unprecedented in the country.
Luís Mestre, a meteorologist who provides updated information to the public, states that nighttime lows range between 23 and 25 degrees, complicating rest and increasing overall discomfort. Health authorities have emphasized the need for vigilance, given that the risk of dehydration and worsening of chronic illnesses increases with these extreme heat levels.
The World Health Organization warns that extreme heat is becoming an escalating threat to public health in Europe, with over 175,000 deaths attributed to this phenomenon annually. This issue is not exclusive to Portugal, as a heatwave extends across several regions of Europe, affecting areas from the Atlantic to Turkey; 59% of Portuguese territory was influenced during the last heatwave.
Projections for the rest of the summer suggest that climatic conditions will continue to be challenging. Câmara emphasizes that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, calling for urgent measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt infrastructure to new climate realities. However, he is skeptical about the likelihood of these measures being adopted soon, as many solutions require time and current demands tend toward immediate responses.
In light of this situation, authorities stress the need to avoid going out during the hottest hours, to maintain good hydration, and to particularly care for the most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children. The urgency of the message is clear: the population must be aware of the seriousness of the climate crisis they are facing and act accordingly.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
