According to updated information from IPMA, the districts of Bragança, Viseu, Guarda, Vila Real, Castelo Branco and Portalegre will be under a yellow warning between midnight on Monday, January 5th, and 9 am on Wednesday, in addition to Évora, Beja and Faro between midnight on Tuesday, January 6th, and 9 am on Wednesday.

The yellow warning, the least severe on a scale of three, is issued whenever there is a risk situation for certain activities dependent on the weather situation.

Warnings from health authorities

The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) warns, in a note published on its website, that "when the temperature drops, the risk of respiratory diseases, worsening of chronic conditions and accidents increases".

To protect against the negative health effects of the cold, the DGS (Directorate-General of Health) makes several recommendations to the population, such as avoiding sudden temperature changes, wearing layered clothing, protecting extremities with hats, gloves and warm socks, and wearing non-slip footwear to prevent falls.

Keeping the skin hydrated, especially the face, hands and lips, drinking water and hot drinks, and eating soup are other recommendations to keep the population hydrated and warm.

At home, one should avoid sitting for more than an hour at a time to reduce the risk of developing health problems and help keep the body warm.

The DGS also advises the population to have "more frequent meals, shortening the hours between them," and to increase the consumption of foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, as they contribute to reducing the occurrence of infections.

On the other hand, the consumption of fried foods, foods high in fat or sugar, should be avoided.

The DGS also calls for special attention to be paid to the most vulnerable: “young children, elderly people, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, or people in isolation or homeless situations.”

It also advises the population to plan ahead and confirm that they have enough medicines and food, in case it is more difficult to leave home, and, for those who cannot leave home, recommends that they identify other people who can help them get food and medicine.

Outside, because of the cold, physical exertion should be avoided.