Portugal Declares State of Alert Due to New Heatwave

Kokcha News Agency: The Portuguese Directorate-General for Health (DGS) reported that 264 people have died due to extreme heat over the past week. The heatwave has particularly affected individuals with chronic illnesses and those over the age of 75.

According to DGS data, the extreme heat has caused a 21.2% increase in the number of deaths compared to the expected mortality rate for this period.

State of Alert Declared:
The Portuguese government has declared a “state of alert” in anticipation of a new heatwave expected to affect the country from August 3 to 7. Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral stated during a press conference, “This decision was made due to the ongoing high temperatures, low humidity levels, and the need for preventive and special measures to address the risk of fires across much of the country. The coming week will be challenging.”

Minister Amaral announced that access to forested areas, lighting fires, and using machinery in forested and rural areas are now prohibited. Additionally, the use of fireworks or other pyrotechnic devices will not be permitted. She also stated that all leave for firefighting units has been suspended.

Temperatures to Exceed 40°C:
The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere has announced that temperatures in many parts of the country will exceed 40°C starting tomorrow.

Recent Fires:
Over the past week, major fires broke out in three locations, particularly in the central and northern regions of Portugal. The fires were brought under control with the intervention of 1,300 firefighters, 13 aircraft, and approximately 100 ground vehicles.