A mass of warm air from North Africa will cross Portugal today and Saturday, bringing suspended dust that can have effects on health, especially the most sensitive population, warned the Directorate-General for Health (DGS).
© Reinaldo Rodrigues / Global Images
16/10/2026
by
Lusa
Uthe hot air mass in north Africa will cross Portugal today and Saturday, bringing suspended dust that can have effects on health, especially the most sensitive population, warned the Directorate-General for Health (DGS).
According to the DGS, the passage of the hot air mass from the deserts of North Africa will affect the generality of the national territory, predicting poor air quality throughout the territory.
The DGS also warns that inhalable particles (a pollutant) have effects on human health, especially in the most sensitive population, children and the elderly, and therefore recommends that care be doubled, avoiding prologated efforts and limiting outdoor physical activity.
It also recommends that children, the elderly, patients with respiratory problems such as asthma or people with cardiovascular disease remain, whenever possible, inside the buildings, preferably with closed windows.
In case of worsening symptoms, DGS advises the population to contact Health Line 24 (808 24 24 24 24).