Spain is grappling with an intense heatwave as temperatures soar across the country, prompting the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) to issue high-alert warnings for ten autonomous communities. The mercury is expected to climb above 40°C in several regions, particularly in the southern half of the peninsula, the Ebro Valley, and northeastern depressions.The most severely affected areas include Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha, where AEMET has issued ‘orange’ alerts indicating high risk. Other regions under alert include Andalusia, Aragon, Castile and León, Catalonia, Galicia, Madrid, and the Valencian Community. In the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is facing a ‘yellow’ alert with nighttime temperatures unlikely to drop below 28°C.AEMET forecasts that this heatwave will persist throughout August, with minimal cloud cover and precipitation expected in most areas. The agency predicts temperatures will rise above 35°C in the southern Atlantic coast, the northern plateau, the Ebro region, and eastern depressions, potentially reaching 40°C in some locations.While some coastal areas may experience a slight decrease in temperatures, inland regions are bracing for continued extreme heat. Cities like Córdoba, Sevilla, and Toledo are expected to face particularly challenging conditions, with temperatures potentially exceeding 40°C.The prolonged heatwave has raised concerns about public health and safety. Experts are urging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. The situation is particularly alarming given that as of July 26, over 180 heat-related deaths had already been reported in Spain this year.As the country faces this climatic challenge, AEMET continues to monitor the situation closely, providing regular updates and warnings to help the public stay informed and safe during this period of extreme heat.
Key points
- Ten autonomous communities in Spain are on high alert due to a severe heatwave.
- Temperatures are expected to exceed 40°C in several regions, particularly in the southern half of the peninsula.
- AEMET predicts the heatwave will persist throughout August, with minimal precipitation expected in most areas.
- As of July 26, over 180 heat-related deaths had been reported in Spain this year, raising serious health concerns.
