Wildfire Risks Remain High Across Portugal
Portugal continues to face a significant threat from wildfires, particularly during the dry summer season which typically spans from April to October. The FCDO's advisory emphasizes that wildfires are 'highly dangerous and unpredictable,' with the potential for rapid spread and severe impact.
On September 15, 2025, Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro warned that the risk of fires remained high due to persistent heat and dry conditions, urging the public not to lower their guard. Authorities declared a state of alert on September 19, 2025, following a 'significant number' of forest fires in the northern and central regions of the country. Reports indicated that over 5,000 firefighters were battling more than 100 wildfires, leading to the closure of a section of the motorway connecting Lisbon and Porto. Since July, fires have resulted in at least four deaths, including one firefighter, and approximately 252,000 hectares had been burned by August 29, 2025. The GNR (Portuguese National Republican Guard) also issued warnings on September 18, 2025, about increased fire danger, with temperatures in some areas expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius.
Tourists are advised to:
- Check the local fire risk index.
- Familiarize themselves with local safety and emergency procedures.
- Follow the advice of Portuguese authorities, who may evacuate areas and close roads for safety.
- Call emergency services on 112 if a fire is spotted.
Potential for Airport Strike Disruptions
The FCDO's updated advice also includes warnings about potential strike action that could cause travel disruption, particularly at airports.
While a previously announced large-scale strike by ground handling staff, represented by the Metallurgical and Related Industries Union (SIMA) at Menzies, from September 3, 2025, until January 2, 2026, was reportedly cancelled due to an Arbitration Court decision, the FCDO maintains that 'strikes can be announced at short notice.' These planned strikes had targeted major airports including Lisbon, Porto, Faro, and Madeira, and were scheduled to occur in alternating periods, affecting key travel windows such as long weekends, bank holidays, Christmas, and New Year. An Arbitration Court had mandated that 100% of flights connecting mainland Portugal with the islands (Azores and Madeira) must be serviced during strike periods, and a minimum of 35% for other international flights.
British nationals travelling to Portugal are encouraged to:
- Check for live updates from their airlines and travel providers.
- Monitor local news for real-time information.
- Be prepared for potential delays and cancellations.
Conclusion
The dual threats of wildfires and potential strike-related travel disruptions underscore the importance of thorough preparation for British tourists heading to Portugal. The FCDO advises all travellers to consult its official guidance regularly and to take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe trip.
5 Comments
Muchacho
While it's important for the FCDO to warn about potential dangers like wildfires, these advisories can significantly impact the local tourism economy. There's a fine line between caution and excessive fear-mongering.
Coccinella
Personal responsibility is key, and travelers should always research destinations. But a clear government warning does add a layer of official concern that can be both helpful for safety and detrimental to destination perception.
Comandante
Good. Safety first, always. FCDO doing its job.
Bella Ciao
The wildfire risk is genuinely concerning and good to highlight, but the focus on strikes feels a bit alarmist given the previous cancellation. It's a balancing act between informing and deterring.
Muchacha
Smart move to update the advisory. Wildfires are terrifying.