Very high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds are forecast for the next few days, according to the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).

The IPMA predicts "values ​​above 33/35°C in most of the country", winds from the north quadrant, relative humidity levels below 30%, and tropical nights in the interior of the Central and South regions between Thursday and Saturday.

These weather conditions “significantly increase the risk of rural fires, especially in the northern and central interior and in the southern region”, warns the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), in a statement sent to newsrooms, in which it recommends the population to adapt their behaviour taking into account the increased danger of fires.

“The Special Rural Firefighting Device (DECIR/25) is activated, with around 8,900 operatives mobilised, supported by more than 1,800 vehicles and 33 aerial resources”, adds ANEPC.

ANEPC also emphasises that it will remain "on permanent readiness to respond to any emergency situation", closely monitoring the evolution of the fire risk and providing additional information whenever necessary.