Heatwave Incoming: Anticyclone Drives High Temperatures
According to analysis from the weather website Meteored, this heatwave is caused by a strengthening anticyclonic ridge pushing an extremely hot air mass over the Iberian Peninsula and causing it to stagnate. Temperatures are expected to gradually rise starting this Wednesday, reaching the peak of this heatwave on Thursday. To cope with the impending heat, Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has planned to activate high-temperature warning systems on Wednesday for 13 of the country’s autonomous communities, urging the public to take precautions.
Heat Epicenter: Southern River Valleys May Exceed 43°C
The impact of this heatwave will be widespread, but its intensity will vary significantly across different regions. The core of the high temperatures is expected to be concentrated in the southern river valleys, with the Guadalquivir Valley potentially seeing maximum temperatures climb to a staggering 43°C on Thursday. Meanwhile, temperatures in the Ebro Valley will reach around 41°C. Several provinces, including Córdoba, Jaén, and Seville in Andalusia; Ciudad Real and Toledo in Castile-La Mancha; and Badajoz and Cáceres in Extremadura, will see temperatures generally reaching or exceeding 40°C. Temperatures in the eastern inland areas of the peninsula and on the Meseta Central (Central Plateau) will also surpass 35°C.
‘Torrid Nights’: Nocturnal Heat in Coastal and Island Areas
In addition to the daytime scorching heat, many parts of Spain will also experience ‘torrid nights’ (Noches Tóridas/Ecuatoriales), where temperatures fail to drop significantly after sunset. In the Mediterranean coastal regions, the Balearic Islands, and the Region of Murcia, overnight low temperatures are not expected to fall below 25°C, making it difficult for the body to rest effectively. Even in cities like Barcelona, the overnight low will hover around 24°C. This high heat will persist after Friday, with inland areas of the peninsula and the Mediterranean coast continuing to experience ‘tropical nights’ (Noches Tropicales, minimum temperatures above 20°C).
Outlook: Saharan Dust and Easing Temperatures
In addition to the high temperatures, atmospheric conditions in the coming days will also favor the arrival of suspended Saharan dust from Africa, expected to mainly affect the southern regions of the peninsula and potentially leading to a decrease in air quality. Looking ahead to the latter part of the week, the heat will begin to ease slightly in some areas starting from Friday, although hot conditions will persist in places like the Ebro Valley. Weather authorities are issuing a special warning to the public, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers, to take adequate measures to prevent heatstroke, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and stay updated with the latest official weather alerts.
