Spain and southern France continue to grapple with an intense heatwave, as temperatures soar to unprecedented levels across both countries. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has activated heat alerts in 11 autonomous communities, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in many areas. In seven of these communities, including Andalusia, Aragon, and Catalonia, the alerts are at the ‘orange’ level, indicating an important risk.The situation is particularly critical in some regions of Spain, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 44°C in certain areas. AEMET has warned that minimum temperatures will also be exceptionally high, hovering around 28°C in many locations. The agency predicts a 60-70% probability of above-normal temperatures continuing through October.In France, Météo-France has maintained a vigilance orange for canicule (heatwave) in thirteen departments, primarily in the south and the Rhone valley. Temperatures are expected to remain high, with minimums of 32°C to 35°C in the center-east of the country and up to 40°C near the Mediterranean coast, including Corsica.Authorities in both countries are urging citizens to take precautions. ‘The heat is a serious risk and we urge everyone to take precautions,’ stated the director of AEMET. Similarly, French officials are advising residents to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.Looking ahead, AEMET has extended its special warning for the heatwave until at least Wednesday, August 7. However, there’s a possibility of relief on the horizon, with forecasts of heavy storms and torrential rains in some regions of Spain following the intense heat. A mass of fresher Atlantic air is expected to enter the northwest of Spain by Friday, causing a general decrease in temperatures, particularly in the eastern half of the country.
Key points
- AEMET has issued heat alerts for 11 autonomous communities in Spain, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C and reach up to 44°C in some areas.
- Thirteen departments in southern France remain under orange heatwave alert, with temperatures up to 40°C near the Mediterranean coast.
- The heatwave in Spain is expected to continue until at least August 7, with a possibility of storms and torrential rains following the intense heat.
- Authorities in both countries are urging citizens to take precautions against the extreme heat.
Contradictions👾While most sources indicate a continuation of the heatwave, one article suggests the possibility of heavy storms and torrential rains in some regions of Spain following the intense heat.
