The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel advisory for British tourists visiting Portugal as raging wildfires and scorching temperatures wreak havoc across popular holiday destinations.
With thermometers hitting a blistering 40°C in some regions, authorities have declared a state of contingency in eight districts. The extreme conditions have forced road closures and transport disruptions, particularly in central Portugal where flames continue to spread rapidly.
Critical Safety Advice for Travellers
The updated guidance warns holidaymakers to:
- Avoid affected areas where wildfires are active
- Follow all instructions from local emergency services
- Expect possible transport delays and route changes
- Stay hydrated and limit sun exposure during peak heat hours
Portugal's civil protection agency has deployed over 1,000 firefighters to battle the blazes, with water-bombing aircraft supporting ground crews. Several rural villages have been evacuated as a precaution.
Tourist Hotspots Under Threat
While major cities like Lisbon and Porto remain largely unaffected, the wildfires pose significant risks to:
- The Algarve's rural hinterland
- Central Portugal's forested areas
- Popular hiking trails in national parks
Tour operators are advising customers to check their itineraries, as some excursions to affected regions may be cancelled or modified for safety reasons.
Heatwave Health Warnings
Alongside the fire risk, health officials have issued alerts about the dangerous heat levels. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere predicts temperatures will remain 5-10°C above seasonal averages through the weekend.
Vulnerable groups including elderly travellers, young children and those with respiratory conditions are being urged to take extra precautions. Many local pharmacies now provide free rehydration sachets to help combat heat exhaustion.
The Foreign Office advises all British nationals in Portugal to monitor local media and register with their embassy for emergency updates. Those planning imminent travel should check with their accommodation providers about local conditions.
