After a brief respite from the intense heat that has gripped much of the country in recent weeks, Spain is once again preparing for a significant rise in temperatures. Meteorologists are warning that a powerful high-pressure system will settle over the Iberian Peninsula from Thursday onwards, bringing another spell of extreme summer heat.
Spain Expat Press Editorial Team
A Heat Dome Over Spain
Forecasters say the new weather pattern will trigger a sharp increase in temperatures across large parts of the country, with some inland areas expected to exceed 40C once again.
The return of the scorching conditions is being driven by a strong ridge of high pressure expanding across south-western Europe.
As it intensifies, it is expected to create what meteorologists refer to as a “heat dome” – a phenomenon in which hot air becomes trapped beneath a stable layer of high pressure.
This effectively acts like a lid over the atmosphere, preventing cooler air from entering and allowing temperatures at ground level to rise steadily over several days.
The result is likely to be another prolonged period of exceptionally hot weather across much of Spain.
Southern Spain Faces the Highest Temperatures
The first significant increase is expected on Thursday, when cities such as Seville, Córdoba and Badajoz could see temperatures climbing to around 41C.
Elsewhere, much of central and southern Spain is forecast to experience temperatures well above 35C, while Madrid could reach approximately 35C. Along parts of the Mediterranean coast, temperatures are also expected to exceed 32C.
Northern Spain, however, is once again likely to escape the worst of the heat. Cities along the Cantabrian coast, including Bilbao and Oviedo, are forecast to remain considerably cooler, with maximum temperatures of around 23C to 25C.
Not Officially a Heatwave – Yet
Despite the severity of the forecast, the episode is not currently expected to meet the official criteria for a nationwide heatwave established by the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología.
This is largely because northern coastal regions will remain comparatively cool, limiting the geographical extent of the extreme temperatures.
Nevertheless, meteorologists stress that the heat will be intense in many areas, particularly between Friday and Sunday, when temperatures of 40C to 42C could be recorded in the valleys of the Ebro, Tagus, Guadiana and Guadalquivir rivers.
Tropical Nights to Bring Little Relief
The heat will not be confined to daylight hours. Many areas in southern, central and eastern Spain are also expected to endure so-called “tropical nights”, with temperatures failing to fall below 22C to 24C after sunset.
Such conditions can significantly affect sleep and pose additional health risks, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying medical conditions.
Health authorities continue to advise residents and visitors to remain well hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day and check regularly on vulnerable family members and neighbours.
