How is Portugal Responding to the Rising Temperatures and Wildfire Threat?
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Synopsis
As Portugal faces soaring temperatures this weekend, reaching up to 43°C, the government is mobilizing all available resources to combat wildfires. With over 50 active fires and thousands of personnel deployed, the situation is critical. What measures are being taken to protect lives and properties?
Key Takeaways
- Portugal is facing extreme heat this weekend with temperatures potentially hitting 43°C.
- Wildfire risks have increased significantly due to the soaring temperatures.
- The government has mobilized thousands of firefighters and resources to combat active wildfires.
- Forest fires have consumed a record amount of land this year compared to previous years.
- Preventative measures are being prioritized to protect lives and property.
Lisbon, Aug 7 (NationPress) The maximum temperature is expected to spike once again this weekend throughout much of mainland Portugal, with potential highs of 43 degrees Celsius in the southern interior and the Tejo and Douro valleys, as reported by the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere.
The escalating temperatures have drastically heightened the danger of wildfires. As of Thursday afternoon, 54 wildfires were still active across Portugal, according to the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection. To tackle the flames, a total of 2,253 firefighters, 721 vehicles, and three aircraft have been deployed.
Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral stated on Wednesday that Portugal is undertaking its “largest effort yet” in fighting wildfires by mobilizing all available resources.
This year, nearly 42,000 hectares have been devastated by forest fires in Portugal—an increase of eightfold compared to the same timeframe in 2024, marking the highest figure since 2022, as reported by the Integrated Rural Fire Management System (SGIFR).
SGIFR statistics reveal that since January 1, there have been 5,211 recorded fires that have resulted in the burning of a total of 41,644 hectares, according to Xinhua news agency.
More than half of the scorched area was engulfed in flames within less than two weeks following July 26, and the number of fires has nearly doubled compared to the same timeframe in 2024, according to SGIFR.
The minister emphasized, “We are utilizing all available means within our capacity, despite always limited resources. What we have mobilized signifies the most substantial effort made so far in combating forest fires.”
She reiterated that the government’s primary focus is to prevent the situation from escalating. “Our primary duty is to ensure the situation does not worsen. We are entirely dedicated to fighting the fires to safeguard lives and property. To achieve this, we have activated every resource at our disposal.”
Amaral noted that Portugal currently has 72 firefighting aircraft operational, with coordinated efforts among the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection, the Air Force, and the Ministry of Defence.
Point of View
I emphasize the critical state Portugal is in as it faces unprecedented temperatures and the increasing threat of wildfires. The government's proactive measures, though limited, reflect a commitment to safeguarding the populace and the environment. Our focus remains on supporting the nation in overcoming these challenges.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the expected temperatures in Portugal this weekend?
Portugal is anticipating temperatures to reach up to 43 degrees Celsius in the southern interior and Tejo and Douro valleys.
How many wildfires are currently active in Portugal?
As of Thursday, there are 54 active wildfires across Portugal.
What resources are being deployed to combat the wildfires?
A total of 2,253 firefighters, 721 vehicles, and three aircraft have been mobilized to fight the flames.
How much land has been affected by wildfires this year?
Nearly 42,000 hectares have been consumed by forest fires in Portugal this year.
What is the government doing to prevent the situation from worsening?
The government is utilizing all available resources and prioritizing efforts to safeguard lives and property.
