Government presents ‘heatwave strategy’, warning of rising death risk

Portugal’s government has unveiled a broader national strategy to tackle extreme heat, warning that the country’s response must begin in communities rather than hospitals, but admitting even so the risk of heat-releated deaths.

Speaking as much of Portugal remains under severe heat alerts, Secretary of State for Health Ana Povo said the effects of heatwaves cannot be managed solely by the healthcare system: they require coordinated action across society.

“Unlike respiratory infections in winter, where pressure falls mainly on healthcare services, heatwaves require a much broader response, involving the whole of society,” she said.

“The most effective response does not begin in hospital. It starts much earlier, with prevention, active protection of the most vulnerable, and attention from families, neighbours and communities – particularly for people living in isolation.”

The government said a nationwide response is already under way, with measures being activated gradually according to the level of risk identified in each area.

Under the Directorate-General of Health’s (DGS) 2026-2027 National Seasonal Health Preparedness and Response Plan, health authorities, Civil Protection, municipalities and local organisations are expected to work together to protect vulnerable groups, with interventions scaled according to weather conditions and public health risks.

The strategy places particular emphasis on older people, young children, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses and those living alone.

Mortality warning

The government acknowledges that the ongoing heatwave (forecast to stretch well into next week) could lead to an increase in deaths – particularly because night-time temperatures are expected to remain unusually high, limiting the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat.

“Periods of extreme heat can unfortunately be associated with increased mortality, especially among the most vulnerable,” Ana Povo explained.

“This has already been observed in several European countries over the past week. National estimates indicate a potential increase in mortality in the coming days if the forecast weather conditions continue.”

Health Minister Ana Paula Martins has previously voiced concern over the potential impact of the heatwave, urging the public to follow official health advice issued by the DGS.

New guidance for workers and municipalities

As part of the expanded response, the DGS this week published new guidance aimed at protecting workers exposed to high temperatures, with a separate handbook for municipalities and parish councils expected shortly.

Authorities continue to urge the public to:

Drink at least 1.5 litres of water daily, even without feeling thirsty.

Avoid outdoor activity and direct sun exposure between 11am and 5pm.

Stay in cool or air-conditioned environments whenever possible.

Keep shutters closed during the day and ventilate homes during cooler hours.

Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, hats and sunglasses.

Adapt physical activity to weather conditions.

Contact the national health helpline, SNS24, or seek medical care if symptoms worsen.

Officials stressed that while hospitals remain fully engaged, the first line of defence against extreme heat lies within communities, local authorities, employers, social institutions and families – and with temperatures forecast to remain exceptionally high across much of Portugal for as many as 10 days, ‘preventing heat-related illness will be just as important as treating it’.

Source material: LUSA/ SIC Notícias/ Executive Digest