Andalusia is currently experiencing its second major heatwave of the summer. According to Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, temperatures are expected to climb above 40°C across large parts of the region. At the same time, concerns over wildfires are growing, as the combination of prolonged drought, intense heat and strengthening winds has created highly critical conditions.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Inland areas of Andalusia are set to face particularly challenging conditions on Tuesday. Temperatures in Córdoba are forecast to reach highs of up to 43°C, while Sevilla and Jaén could see temperatures of around 42°C. Granada is also approaching the 40°C mark, with some areas of the Costa del Sol and the province of Almería expected to reach highs of 38°C.
Spain’s weather agency AEMET has therefore issued weather alerts for several areas. The second-highest warning level is in place, particularly in the provinces of Córdoba and Sevilla, as the prolonged heat poses a significant risk, especially to elderly people, children and those with underlying health conditions.
Night-time temperatures offer little respite
The heat is not only taking its toll during the daytime. In many parts of Andalusia, temperatures are barely expected to fall below 24 to 26°C even during the night. These so-called tropical nights, and in some areas even hot nights, make it considerably harder for the body to recover and increase the strain on people’s health over several consecutive days.
Meteorologists expect the heatwave to continue until at least the middle of the week. Only afterwards could temperatures in south-western Spain begin to ease slightly.
Wildfire threat rises to critical levels
Alongside the rising temperatures, wildfire risk is reaching exceptionally high levels in many parts of the country. Large areas of Andalusia are particularly affected, as well as regions in eastern and north-eastern Spain.
Following weeks of dry weather, vegetation has become severely parched. Under these conditions, even a small spark can be enough to trigger a wildfire. In addition, isolated dry thunderstorms and strong gusts of wind can contribute to the rapid spread of fires.
Authorities are therefore urging residents and holidaymakers to strictly follow all safety regulations. Open fires, barbecuing outside designated areas or discarding cigarette ends can have serious consequences under the current conditions.
First fires put emergency crews on alert
The tense situation is already becoming apparent on the ground. In the Sierra de Grazalema in the province of Cádiz, numerous people were forced to leave their homes as a precaution in recent days after a wildfire spread close to residential areas. Thanks to the efforts of firefighters, the situation has been partially brought under control, allowing many of those evacuated to return.
Nevertheless, emergency crews remain on high alert. As long as the extreme weather conditions continue, there remains a constant risk of new fires breaking out.
Heatwave also affects other parts of Spain
Andalusia is not the only region suffering from the exceptional heat. In the Valencia region, Catalonia and Aragón, temperatures of more than 42°C are also expected. In some areas, the highest warning levels are even in place.
According to meteorologists, the current weather situation ranks among the most intense heat periods of the summer so far. At the beginning of July, temperatures above 40°C were already recorded at numerous weather stations.
Experts advise extra caution
Health authorities recommend avoiding spending time outdoors during the midday and afternoon hours whenever possible. Staying well hydrated, wearing light clothing and taking particular care of vulnerable people are also essential.
Pets should also not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Vehicles can heat up to life-threatening temperatures within just a few minutes.
Although some regions may see a slight easing of conditions in the second half of the week, meteorologists continue to expect exceptionally high summer temperatures. As a result, the risk of wildfires is likely to remain a major concern in many parts of Spain over the coming days.
