Portugal on wildfire alert amid heat wave and severe drought

LISBON, Portugal – Portugal’s government on Friday declared an eightday state of alert due to a heightened risk of wildfires, as the drought-stricken country prepares for a heat wave packing temperatures as high as 109 degrees Fahrenheit. The torrid weather brings with it “a significant worsening of the wildfire risk” through July 15, a joint statement from five government departments said. While emergency restrictions are in effect, police and forest rangers will be on permanent standby and will conduct regular patrols.