Spain is once again facing a period of exceptional heat. The national weather agency AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología) has confirmed the arrival of the fourth heatwave of the summer. From Wednesday onwards, temperatures are expected to rise significantly across large parts of the country. Meteorologists are forecasting several days of extreme heat, numerous weather warnings and an increased risk of wildfires.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
After a brief period of relief with slightly lower temperatures, the heat is now set to return with full force. The areas expected to be most affected include southern Spain, inland regions and various areas along the Mediterranean coast.
Temperatures rise above 40°C once again
The peak of the new heatwave is expected in the coming days. Residents and holidaymakers in Spain’s major river valleys should prepare for temperatures exceeding 40°C.
Particularly high temperatures are expected in the Guadalquivir Valley in Andalusia, the Guadiana area, the Tagus Valley and parts of the Ebro Basin. In some regions, temperatures could once again reach between 42°C and 44°C.
The nights will bring little relief either. In many parts of Spain, so-called tropical nights are expected, with temperatures remaining above 20°C. Along the Mediterranean coast in particular, the combination of high humidity and warm nights could create additional discomfort.
Andalusia particularly affected by the heat
As is often the case during extreme weather events, Andalusia will be one of the regions particularly affected. Cities and municipalities in the provinces of Seville, Córdoba, Jaén, Granada and Málaga should prepare for very high temperatures.
The Costa del Sol will also continue to experience high temperatures. Although the Mediterranean often keeps maximum temperatures slightly lower than in inland areas, temperatures along the coast can still rise well above 35°C. High humidity levels can make the heat feel even more intense.
For holidaymakers, the current weather situation means one thing above all: outdoor activities should be adapted to the heat wherever possible. The strain caused by the sun and high temperatures is greatest during the midday hours, particularly between 12pm and 6pm.
Increased wildfire risk in several regions
In addition to the health risks, the new heatwave is also raising concerns due to the increasing risk of wildfires. The combination of severe dryness, high temperatures, low humidity and, in some areas, strong winds creates ideal conditions for fires to start and spread rapidly.
Authorities are therefore urging people to take particular care in dry natural areas. Open fires, discarded cigarettes or other potential sources of ignition can have serious consequences under these weather conditions.
Preventive measures against wildfires have already been increased in several regions of Spain. Firefighters and emergency services are preparing for a possible worsening of the situation.
Authorities call for precautionary measures
Health authorities are reminding the public that extreme heat can pose a particular risk to older people, children, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions.
People are advised to drink plenty of water, avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day and, where possible, schedule physical activities for the early morning or evening. Wearing light clothing, using sun protection and taking regular breaks can help protect the body from overheating.
It is particularly important to check on vulnerable people regularly and to protect pets from the heat. Animals should always have access to sufficient water and should never be left unattended in parked vehicles.
How long will the heat last?
According to weather experts, the current heatwave is expected to last for several days. A significant drop in temperatures is not expected until the end of the week at the earliest. However, the weather situation remains dynamic, meaning further periods of extreme heat in August cannot be ruled out.
The fourth heatwave of the summer is part of a series of unusually warm weather periods that Spain has already experienced several times this year. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation, as increasingly longer and more intense periods of extreme heat are becoming a growing challenge for the population, agriculture and the natural environment.
What does the heatwave mean for holidaymakers in Spain?
For tourists, there is no reason to cancel trips to Spain despite the high temperatures. Holiday destinations remain open, but visitors should take the heat seriously and plan their activities accordingly.
Anyone travelling to the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, the Balearic Islands or other popular holiday regions should pay particular attention to adequate sun protection, drink plenty of fluids and avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight.
A day at the beach is still possible during a heatwave – however, the early morning and late afternoon are often the most comfortable times. With the right precautions, a holiday in Spain can still be enjoyed safely even during periods of extreme heat.
