Nearly 27 beaches in Spain's Costa Blanca have been closed to tourists as extreme heat and dangerous weather warnings take hold, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 45 degrees Celsius.
Spain's national weather agency, AEMET, has predicted strong storms and gusts of wind that could cause thermal blowouts. This phenomenon occurs when precipitation evaporates as it crosses dry air in warm environments, causing a sudden spike in temperature and strong winds.
Municipalities raise red flags
Three municipalities—Alicante, Guardamar del Segura, and Orihuela—have raised red flags on their beaches to prevent risks from the extreme weather, according to Mercia Today.
Orihuela City Council confirmed all beaches along its coast would be closed from 5pm on July 23, banning all swimming. Affected beaches include Punta Prima Beach, Cala Mosca, Cala Estaca, Cala Bosque, Cala Capitan, Cala Cerrada, and nearby coves.
Alicante City Council has also activated emergency measures, closing all municipal beaches, parks, gardens, and wooded areas. The ban affects popular tourist beaches such as Postiguet, San Juan Beach, Urbanova-El Saladar, Aguamarga, La Almadraba, and Albufereta, according to the Olive Press.
Safety advice for tourists
All three councils have asked beachgoers to remove umbrellas and other objects that could be thrown by strong winds. Authorities advise tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and steer clear of beaches and exposed coastal areas for their own safety.
There is no official statement advising against travel to any parts of Spain due to the heatwave. However, tourists are advised to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen and light clothing. Those staying in villas or hotels should bring in parasols, outdoor furniture, plant pots, and loose objects from balconies or terraces.
The adjoining municipalities of Santa Pola and Torrevieja have yet to make a statement regarding their beaches.
