Fire-fighters in Loulé, São Brás de Alportel, Tavira, Alcoutim and Castro Marim have been placed on the highest level of readiness due to the very likely possibility of fires erupting during the course of today.

The advisory by the Portuguese Met Office comes as windy conditions are set to continue, with thermometers breaching the 30-degree barrier across southern Portugal.

The recent shortage of rainfall has also left forested areas particularly prone to fires.