Portugal experiences 264 heat-related deaths last week
Portugal Suffers Significant Excess Mortality During 2025 Heatwave
A heatwave that hit Portugal in 2025 resulted in an estimated 284 excess deaths, with the majority of the victims being elderly individuals, according to preliminary data. The northern region of Portugal was particularly affected, consistent with the overall pattern of vulnerability among the elderly during the extreme heat period.
During the heatwave, the National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) estimated a "relative excess" of 21.2% compared to expectations between July 26 and 30, 2025. The DGS reported 264 excess deaths during the heat alert period on Portugal's mainland.
The excess deaths occurred during a period when a heat alert was issued and were particularly high among those aged 75 and above. The Índice ÍCARO, calculated by the INSA, anticipated a very significant effect of temperature on mortality during the hot period.
The heat alert period is associated with an increased risk of excess mortality, particularly among older adults and in certain regions of Portugal. High air temperatures are generally associated with periods of mortality higher than expected for the time of year, according to the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere.
The DGS, in coordination with the Executive Board of the SNS (DE-SNS) and local structures, has been activating contingency plans according to risk assessments made. The DGS has intensified communication with the population through various means and platforms over the past few days, with the aim of clarifying and raising awareness about the recommendations to adopt during periods of extreme temperatures.
The heatwave was part of a broader European event where record-breaking temperatures led to an estimated 2,300 deaths across 12 cities in Europe. About 65% of these excess deaths were attributed to human-induced climate change. In Portugal, specifically, 380 deaths in June were linked to high temperatures.
The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) predicts a significant increase in temperatures across Portugal's mainland, with values expected to reach or exceed 40°C in several regions, particularly over the weekend. The DGS will maintain permanent monitoring of the situation and update information as necessary.
The health authority stresses the importance of the entire population, particularly vulnerable groups, adopting the DGS recommendations, available on its website.
Scientists at the National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) attributed the increased risk of excess mortality during the heatwave to the detrimental effects of high temperatures on health-and-wellness. With growing concerns about climate change, it's important to prioritize science-based strategies for health protection, especially during extreme heat periods in susceptible regions like Portugal.
