Portugal records 264 excess deaths in a week due to heatwave

LISBON, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- Mainland Portugal recorded 264 excess deaths during the heat alert period that began a week ago, a 21.2 percent increase compared to the expected number, mainly among people over 75 years old and in the northern region, according to data released Friday by the Directorate-General for Health (DGS).

The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) forecasted a sharp rise in temperatures across the mainland in the coming days, with values expected to reach or exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several regions, especially over the weekend.

The DGS said in a statement that high air temperatures are generally associated with periods of mortality above the expected level for the time of year.