European holiday hotspots are bracing for a record-breaking heatwave, with Spain potentially facing its hottest ever temperature of 48C in the coming days. The GFS weather model indicates that temperatures could soar well above the seasonal average next week, posing severe risks to tourists and locals alike.
Forecasted Temperatures Across Europe
According to the GFS model, Thursday could see highs of 44C in southern Spain, 42C in Catalonia, and 44C in Sicily. However, Friday is expected to be even hotter, with potential highs of 48C in Andalusia—a figure that would break Spain's all-time temperature record. The popular tourist destination of Seville could reach 46C or 47C.
Current Heatwave Impact and Wildfires
This extreme heat follows devastating wildfires in southern Spain last week that claimed 13 lives, including seven British nationals. Already this week, several weather warnings have been issued in Spain. In Andalusia, an orange alert is in effect for Almería, while yellow alerts cover Granada, Córdoba, Jaén, and Málaga. In Aragon, Zaragoza is under an orange alert, with Teruel and Huesca on yellow. The Balearic Islands and Murcia have also received warnings.
Expert Warnings on Future Extremes
Professor Bill McGuire, Emeritus Professor of Geophysical & Climate Hazards at UCL, warned that 50C could be exceeded soon. He stated: “It would be no surprise if 50C was exceeded, either later this summer or next year, when the heating impact of the unprecedented El Niño building in the Pacific will be at its greatest.”
