Portugal declares alert as extreme heat raises wildfire risk

Portugal has declared a nationwide state of alert starting Friday as an intense heatwave is expected to continue through Monday, bringing extremely high temperatures and a heightened risk of wildfires. Authorities have introduced emergency measures, including banning machinery use in forest areas, restricting brush-cutting equipment in rural المناطق, and prohibiting fireworks to help prevent fires. Twelve of Portugal’s 18 mainland districts are under the highest weather alert, while the rest also face severe wildfire risk. Meanwhile, the country’s electricity use reached a record high in the first half of 2026 as demand for cooling increased, with renewable energy supplying 71% of total electricity consumption.

Credit : CGTN