The Portuguese government has activated a national heatwave response plan as temperatures across the mainland are forecast to exceed 40 degrees Celsius. Health officials are coordinating with municipal authorities, civil protection services, and social security to open climate-controlled shelters for vulnerable populations, according to the Secretary of State for Health Ana Povo.
Health risks and prevention measures
Authorities have issued a warning regarding the potential for increased mortality and a rise in demand for healthcare services during the coming days. The Secretary of State for Health Ana Povo highlighted that a specific concern for this heatwave is the lack of expected nighttime cooling, which limits the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat. The government recommends that individuals consume at least 1.5 liters of water daily and avoid direct sun exposure between 11:00 and 17:00.
To maintain lower indoor temperatures, residents are advised to keep shutters closed during the day and ventilate homes only during cooler hours. Anyone experiencing signs of an aggravated health condition should contact the SNS24 health line or seek medical assistance, as the government emphasizes that early prevention is the most effective defense against heat-related illness.
Did You Know? The Directorate-General of Health (DGS) launched two guides in 2026 to alert the population to the dangers of winter and summer, and in the coming days, two more will be released. One will be focused on physical activity and the other on nutrition during the hottest days.
Operational readiness of the health system
Portugal is currently at Level 1 of the national health risk scale. Álvaro Almeida, executive director of the Serviço Nacional de Saúde, confirmed that all Local Health Units have received operational protocols to manage the heatwave. These units have prioritized climate control in emergency departments, inpatient wards, and waiting areas to ensure capacity for a potential surge in patients.
Expert Insight: Unlike winter respiratory outbreaks that place a concentrated burden on hospital systems, heatwaves require a decentralized approach. By shifting the focus from hospital-based care to community-level prevention and the use of municipal shelters, the government is attempting to mitigate the pressure on the national health infrastructure before individual cases become critical.
What happens next
As the heatwave progresses, municipal authorities are expected to identify additional public spaces that can serve as temporary cooling centers. The government has requested that citizens utilize these shelters as needed. Furthermore, the Directorate-General of Health will continue its public awareness campaign, with new guidance on nutrition and physical activity scheduled for release in the coming days to help the population manage the extreme conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I feel unwell during the heatwave?
The government advises that you should contact the SNS24 line or seek out local health services immediately if you notice any signs of an aggravated health condition.
Are there specific hours I should avoid being outside?
Yes, authorities recommend avoiding sun exposure between 11:00 and 17:00.
How is the health system preparing for the heat?
Local Health Units have implemented a plan to monitor health risks and have ensured the conditions of climate control in emergency, inpatient, and waiting areas to handle an increase in service demand.
Are you taking the necessary precautions to keep your home cool during these high-temperature days?
