Temperatures Near 30°C Expected Across the Region
Arguably for the first time this year, the Madeira archipelago is entering a period of hot and dry weather, with daytime temperatures forecast to approach 30 degrees Celsius in some areas. In Funchal, maximum temperatures are expected to reach 29 °C, with nighttime temperatures staying above 20 °C - a pattern known as tropical nights. Porto Santo is also expected to be warm, with highs around 26 °C. Even in the highlands, such as at Pico do Areeiro, which sits at 1,500 meters above sea level, temperatures could reach 27 °C.
Low Humidity and Mountain Heat Raise Fire Concerns
Victor Prior, the regional director of the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), says that temperatures will rise by 5 to 6 degrees starting today, especially in mountain regions. At the same time, relative humidity will fall below 30%, creating very dry conditions. This combination of heat and low humidity increases the risk of wildfires and could affect public health, especially among the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. These weather patterns are expected to last until Sunday, June 29.
Wind Gusts Could Reach 60 km/h by Friday
The weather is being shaped by the eastern edge of the Azores high-pressure system. Winds from the north are predicted to stay light to moderate, with speeds up to 30 km/h. However, by Friday, June 27, winds may become stronger, with gusts reaching 60 km/h in the mountains and at the eastern and western tips of Madeira Island. These conditions may affect outdoor activities, transportation, and fire safety measures.
Extreme Weather in Some Parts of the Mainland
Five southern Portuguese districts — Évora, Faro, Setúbal, Beja, and Portalegre — will be under orange alert from Saturday to Sunday due to extreme heat, with maximum temperatures possibly above 40°C. Yellow alerts cover much of the rest of the country. Hot air from North Africa and suspended dust are expected, with tropical nights likely in the south and Madeira.
Enjoy the summer!
Sources:
- Diário de Notícias da Madeira
- Diário de Notícias da Madeira
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