Portugal has reported 1,331 excess deaths during a prolonged heatwave from July 27 to August 15, according to national health data. The sharp increase in mortality coincided with 20 consecutive days of extreme temperatures, representing a 25 percent rise over expected figures for that period. Health authorities have confirmed the deaths were linked to the intense and sustained heat, which affected every region of the country. The Portuguese Directorate-General for Health confirmed that mortality was highest in the northern, central and Alentejo regions.
The rise in deaths was attributed to complications aggravated by high temperatures, including dehydration and the worsening of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. This summer’s heatwave is now considered one of the deadliest in Portugal’s recent history. The majority of fatalities occurred among older adults. An analysis of official records showed that 29 out of 34 days with excess mortality involved individuals over the age of 70. Those aged 75 and above accounted for the highest proportion of deaths.
Health professionals cited the increased vulnerability of elderly populations to heat-related stress and the greater prevalence of pre-existing health conditions in that age group. The summer period was marked by two major heatwaves, one from July 1 to 9 and another from July 25 to 31. The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere confirmed that July 2025 was among the ten hottest months on record since 1931.
Elderly populations at greatest risk during extreme heat
On several days, including July 3, 4, 30 and 31, average temperatures exceeded monthly norms by more than 3 degrees Celsius. These conditions contributed directly to the surge in mortality observed across multiple regions. In addition to the recent spike in deaths, Portugal also recorded 69 excess fatalities during an earlier heat alert between June 27 and early July. Those deaths were also primarily among individuals aged 85 and older.
On June 29, the town of Mora recorded Portugal’s highest-ever June temperature, adding pressure to emergency and healthcare services already monitoring vulnerable populations. Despite the recent rise in summer deaths, cumulative mortality figures for the year remain close to last year’s totals. As of August 18, Portugal had reported 77,292 total deaths, compared to 76,849 over the same period in 2024. While the year began with relatively stable mortality rates, the sharp mid-year increase underscores the acute risks associated with prolonged heat events.
Broader southern Europe also impacted by summer heat
The impact of this summer’s heatwave in Portugal reflects broader trends observed across southern Europe. Several countries in the region faced record-breaking temperatures, increased hospitalizations, and widespread civil protection alerts. Portugal’s health and meteorological agencies have issued repeated advisories urging citizens to stay indoors during peak heat hours and to take additional precautions, especially among older residents and those with chronic illnesses.
National officials continue to assess the effectiveness of existing emergency response protocols, including heat mitigation strategies and public awareness campaigns. The rise in temperature-related mortality has prompted renewed calls for reinforced health infrastructure and targeted protections for at-risk groups during periods of severe weather. As the frequency and intensity of heatwaves increase across Europe, the burden on public health systems is expected to grow. – By EuroWire News Desk.