The Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) announced new temperature records for September 2026 in mainland Portugal. On September 3, temperatures reached an average of 27.61°C, making it the fourth hottest day recorded in September since 1941. This weather phenomenon was caused by a combination of a small atmospheric depression with an anticyclone located over northern Africa, which influenced air circulation and resulted in hot and dry winds blowing from the African region.
Among the records registered, the maximum temperature of 44.3°C in Alcochete stands out, while the following day the minimum temperature in Portalegre reached 28°C. IPMA measurements also revealed that 17% of weather stations exceeded previous maximum temperature records for September, and 8 stations recorded values equal to or higher than minimum temperature records.
IPMA emphasized that this phenomenon highlights the growing concerns about extreme weather conditions that have intensified in recent years, reinforcing the impacts of climate change in Portugal. Experts warn of the urgent need for measures to mitigate the effects of global warming.
Experts emphasize the critical need for continuous monitoring of atmospheric conditions and adapting public policies to safeguard communities against increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
