Spain's Ongoing Heatwave Expected to Extend Through August 13
Spain faces an extended heatwave, now expected to last until August 13 as temperatures soar.
Key Points
- • Heatwave in Spain extended to at least August 13.
- • Temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius reported, especially in Granada.
- • Nights will remain warm with temperatures not dropping below 20-22 degrees Celsius.
- • Aemet cautions that even post-August 13, high temperatures may continue.
Spain is grappling with a severe and prolonged heatwave, currently impacting the nation since August 3, and the latest forecasts from the Spanish Meteorological Agency (Aemet) indicate that these conditions are expected to persist until at least August 13.
Initially, there were expectations that the heatwave would subside by August 10; however, this has been revised as Aemet warns of potentially higher temperatures, particularly in the Ebro Valley and southwestern regions. Notably, Granada has recorded a staggering high of 40.9 degrees Celsius, with temperatures across various regions climbing above 40 degrees. The Aemet has issued special alerts for several provinces, emphasizing the likelihood of further temperature increases.
Current estimates suggest that much of Spain may experience daytime highs between 34 and 36 degrees, with some areas reaching or exceeding 40 degrees. Night temperatures are also notably high, expected to remain around 20-22 degrees Celsius, offering little respite from the heat. Coastal areas, including parts of Almería and Alicante, may experience nighttime lows approaching 25 degrees, prompting widespread discomfort across the country.
The current heatwave conditions are attributed to a warm, dry air mass originating from Africa, along with high summer sunshine levels, which collectively lead to significantly higher temperatures than normal for this time of year. Aemet urges residents to remain vigilant, especially in regions under orange weather warnings, spanning areas such as Andalucía and the Community of Madrid.
Looking ahead, while slight temperature decreases are anticipated after August 13, Aemet warns that high temperatures are expected to remain abnormal, indicating that the extreme weather could persist beyond the forecasted date, affecting daily life and health in the region.
As Spain endures these challenging heat conditions, authorities are encouraging residents to take necessary precautions to mitigate heat-related health risks ahead of the upcoming weekend, when temperatures are projected to peak further.