DGS: Portugal recorded 264 excess deaths in the last week due to the heat

"Following the hot weather warning that began on July 25, excess mortality was detected, with 264 excess deaths observed in mainland Portugal," said the Directorate-General for Health (DGS) in a statement.

According to estimates from the National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge ( INSA ), these numbers correspond to "a relative excess" of 21.2% more than expected, between 26 and 30 July 2025, especially in the age group aged 75 or over and in the North of the country.

According to the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere ( IPMA ), a sharp rise in temperatures is expected across mainland Portugal in the coming days, with values expected to reach or exceed 40°C in several regions of mainland Portugal, especially over the weekend.

The DGS warns that "very high air temperatures, such as those seen in recent days (maximum and minimum), have a known negative impact on health, resulting in dehydration or the decompensation of chronic diseases, among other factors, especially among the elderly."

It highlights that high air temperatures are generally associated with periods of higher mortality than expected for the time of year (excess mortality).

As of today, the ÍCARO index for mainland Portugal – calculated by INSA and which estimates the impact of air temperatures on mortality – anticipates a very significant effect of temperature on mortality during the hot weather period, particularly in the North, Center and Alentejo regions.

In view of the current situation, the DGS, in conjunction with the Executive Directorate of the SNS (DE-SNS) and local structures, has coordinated the activation of contingency plans, in accordance with the risk assessments carried out.

In parallel, the DGS states that in recent days it has intensified communication with the population through various means and platforms, with the aim of clarifying and raising awareness of the recommendations to be adopted during periods of extreme temperatures.

“Despite all efforts to mitigate the impact of heat on health, a period of excess mortality is expected in older age groups,” he emphasizes.

The health authority reinforces the importance of the entire population, and especially the most vulnerable groups – such as people with chronic illnesses, the elderly, children, pregnant women, individuals who perform professional activities outdoors, people who are homeless or in social isolation – adopting the DGS recommendations, available on its website .

The DGS states that it will continue to monitor the situation permanently, updating the information whenever necessary.

Photo: Bruno Filipe Pires