Forecasts point to a stretch of scorching days with temperatures climbing above 35 and even 40 degrees across much of the Peninsular and Balearic Islands by the end of the week. Aemet, the State Meteorological Agency, notes that a heat wave is a possibility this year. While officials caution that the situation is not yet confirmed, the potential would mark one of the earliest heat waves on record, with the earliest confirmed heat waves dating back to June 11, 1981.
“Until next Monday or Tuesday”
Meteorologists warn of a heavy spell of high temperatures ahead. After a brief dip tomorrow, the trend will reverse from Wednesday or Thursday, with heat persisting at least through next Monday or Tuesday. Daytime highs could surpass 35 degrees across most regions, and in the Guadalquivir, Guadiana, and possibly the Ebro valleys, thermometers might reach or exceed 40 degrees.
Temperatures continue to rise in the public-facing climate assessment published with a cautious forecast. The heat is expected to intensify with a clear, dry pattern and a persistent high-pressure system dominating much of the weather in these areas.
The heatwave would likely have started on Saturday the 11th or Sunday the 12th. For such a scenario to unfold, several atmospheric ingredients must align: a warm air source, robust high-pressure ridges, and limited mixing that would otherwise disperse the heat. As the air descends from higher levels to the surface, compression warms it further, reinforcing the heatwave conditions.
Contributing factors include strong daily sunshine, particularly in June when the sun sits high and the days are long, allowing surface heating to be especially efficient. A stable atmospheric setup means there is little wind to disperse the heat, which helps hot air pool over populated regions and agricultural zones alike.
Looking ahead to Sunday and Monday, forecasters anticipate that temperatures could continue to rise if a low-pressure system forms in the Atlantic. Such a feature could draw very hot air from the northern reaches of the African continent into the Iberian region, potentially boosting daytime highs even further. This scenario would depend on how the upper-air pattern evolves and whether the Atlantic system can maintain alignment with the developing surface heat.
Experts reiterate that, in the current conditions, average temperatures for these dates may be elevated by roughly ten degrees compared with long-term norms. The broader context includes a recent statistical highlight: May of this year was the warmest on record in Spain since systematic measurements began in 1961, underscoring a trend toward hotter late springs and early summers.
As officials and researchers monitor the evolving pattern, residents are advised to take standard heat precautions: stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak sun hours, seek shade when possible, and ensure vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children have access to cool environments. Local authorities may implement temporary guidance and cooling centers if the heat intensifies beyond forecast levels, and the public is encouraged to follow official channels for the latest updates.
In sum, a significant heat event appears likely this week, with widespread high daytime temperatures and regional variations that could push some valleys into the 40-degree range. While the timing remains subject to atmospheric shifts, the probability of a heatwave is high enough to warrant preparation and prudent daily planning across the affected areas.
Environment department contact details are not provided in this version. Official channels will publish any urgent advisories and safety recommendations as the situation develops.