As summer solstice approaches on 21 June, Portugal is marking its national day under a sweltering heat wave that will intensify over the coming days. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) reports that a mass of hot, dry air from North Africa is sweeping across the Iberian Peninsula, driving temperatures sharply upward from 10 to 14 June.
On Portugal Day—officially Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas—thermometers already reached 25 to 35 °C, typical for mid-June. But from 11 June, a more dramatic rise is forecast, with some areas seeing a jump of around 10 °C. Maximum values could hit 45 °C in inland regions, according to IPMA.
Saint Anthony's Eve: The Hottest Day
The peak of this heat event is expected on 12 June, the eve of Saint Anthony’s Day, when most of the country will see temperatures between 35 and 40 °C. Night-time lows will also remain elevated, staying close to or above 20 °C through the night of 13 to 14 June. For those attending Lisbon’s traditional festivities—which include street parties, grilled sardines, and the popular Marchas Populares—authorities advise light clothing, comfortable shoes, and constant hydration.
The IPMA notes that the heat will feel more intense due to a reduction in wind strength, which will amplify the perceived temperature. A yellow heat warning remains in effect across the country until Saturday 13 June, with a slight cooling expected from 14 June.
This heat wave comes as Portugal continues to grapple with broader challenges, including a lifeguard crisis that has left many beaches understaffed during peak season. The combination of high temperatures and reduced safety coverage could pose risks for swimmers seeking relief in the Atlantic.
For travelers, the heat also coincides with increased airport traffic; Portugal is deploying 340 extra PSP officers at airports to ease summer queues. Meanwhile, a recent general strike over labour reforms disrupted transport and services, highlighting ongoing social tensions.
As Europe faces more frequent and intense heat waves—partly linked to broader climatic shifts such as El Niño—Portugal’s experience this week serves as a reminder of the need for preparedness. The country’s beaches, from Carcavelos near Lisbon to the Algarve, remain popular destinations, but visitors should heed official warnings and plan accordingly.
Saint Anthony, the patron saint of Lisbon, is traditionally celebrated with processions and the distribution of manjerico (sweet basil) plants. This year, the festivities will unfold under a blazing sun, with the mercury likely to set records for mid-June.
