Spain is bracing for highs of 42°C this week as the country declares its second official heatwave of the year, prompting weather alerts for UK tourists. Aemet, Spain's national weather service, warns of very high and persistent temperatures starting Sunday, 5 July, with extreme heat forecast to last through much of the week.
Heatwave Peak and Risks
Monday, 6 July, is expected to be the peak, with maximum temperatures reaching 37-39°C in eastern Cantabrian regions, inland Valencia, Mallorca, and both plateaus, potentially exceeding 40°C locally. The southwestern quadrant, Ebro Valley, and northeastern depressions may see 39-41°C, surpassing 42°C in some river valleys. Aemet states a "significant level of danger" during central hours, especially for outdoor activities and vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with cardiovascular disease. Very warm nights will increase fire danger to very high levels, with possible thunderstorms and strong winds.
Outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday
On Tuesday, 7 July, temperatures will drop along the Galician Atlantic coast and extend to western and northern Iberia. However, the eastern third, northeastern depressions, and Ebro Valley may see rises to 39-40°C, potentially reaching 42°C. Much of the Peninsula and Balearic Islands will experience 36-39°C, with 39-42°C in the southwest. Wednesday, 8 July, is likely to continue with heatwave conditions, with maximums exceeding 39-40°C in the southwest, southern plateau, Ebro Valley, and southeast inland areas. From Thursday, 9 July, temperatures will begin to drop along the Atlantic coast, potentially ending the heatwave.
UK Heatwave and Health Alerts
Meanwhile, the UK expects its third heatwave of the year in coming days. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert for East Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, and London from 12pm on Saturday, 4 July, to 5pm on Wednesday, 8 July. The UKHSA warns of minor impacts on health and social care, increased use of healthcare by vulnerable people, greater risk to life, and potential water-related incidents. The Met Office notes that while parts of the UK will hit heatwave thresholds, it will not repeat the late-June heatwave, with temperatures in the high 20s or low 30s and lower humidity.
