Our Tips for Staying Safe in the April Heatwave
The Algarve is experiencing a heatwave during April 2023, with temperatures reaching 10 to 15 degrees above normal. It’s been so hot that we’ve had one of the hottest April days on record with thermometers reaching 37 degrees!
This is due to a hot air mass moving in from North Africa that has been transported by an anticyclone near the Iberian Peninsula and drawn the mass across the Mediterranean up into the Algarve and southern Spanish peninsula.
A Welcome Treat for Locals and Tourists Alike
The heat has been welcomed by many people, both locals and tourists alike, who have been enjoying the sunny weather spending time at the beautiful Algarve beaches, local public bathing pools, waterparks and exceptional beauty spots.
Summer beauty spots in the Algarve
However, the IPMA (Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere) is warning of the dangers of fire and has placed more than 30 municipalities at a very high level of danger.
Beware of the Dangers – Stay Safe – Be Sensible
People are being warned of the dangers of intermittent fires breaking out as was the case during last year’s hottest months. We need to be responsible and avoid simple mistakes that can cause so much damage to both landscapes and wildlife.
Caution must be taken when having BBQs, make sure the fire is out once finished. Avoid throwing away lit cigarettes, make sure they are extinguished. Broken bottles discarded on the dry ground around picnic areas can act as a catalyst in starting fires.
Warning Signs
Apart from the dangers of sporadic fires, people should also be aware of the dangers to personal health, especially to the elderly. Here are some tips for staying safe during the heatwave:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Stay in the shade
- Avoid strenuous activity
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Check on elderly neighbours and relatives
- Be aware of the signs of heatstroke, which include:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Those with pets should also be aware of the dangers of dehydration and make sure they have plenty of shade, and clean water on hand and of course never leave your pets in the car even for a short time.
Let’s all enjoy the warm weather safely!
April Summer in The Algarve
Google Local Guide for the Algarve. Been living in the Algarve for over 20 years and loving the experience. Now writing about and photographing the Algarve experience to share with others. Contributor to all that is Algarve on Wikipedia
