In a statement, the DRS stresses that "in periods of heat, the priority is to remain well hydrated and away from heat sources", noting that "a light, fresh diet rich in water and mineral salts are also important".

The Regional Directorate of Health recommends that the population "intake water and infusions without added sugar throughout the day", even "if you don't feel thirsty".

It also suggests choosing solid foods rich in water, such as fruits and vegetables, cooked or raw.

The DRS also mentions that eating soup is “a safe form of hydration in the summer”, pointing out, on the other hand, that the intake of alcoholic, excessively sugary, or caffeinated drinks should be avoided in this hot season.

“Instead of hydrating, they contribute to water loss. In addition, excessive alcohol is a strong aggressor of the hepatic system”, explains the regional authority.

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA) placed, on Monday, the south coast of Madeira under a red warning, due to hot weather, until 20:00 today.

In a statement, the IPMA said that the “joint action of an anticyclone located northeast of the Azores archipelago, which extends in a ridge to the Bay of Biscay, and a low-pressure valley located between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, allows the transport of a mass of hot and dry air to the archipelago of Madeira”.

The red warning for hot weather, the most serious of a scale of three, has been in effect since 4:53 pm on Monday on the south coast of the island.

Also according to the IPMA, "the rest of the archipelago is under yellow and orange warning for hot weather".