Spain expects another stretch of very high temperatures across much of the eastern half of the peninsula as August arrives, according to the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet). The agency warns that next week will bring above-normal highs across the country, with the northwest and center most affected. Forecasters anticipate daytime peaks routinely exceeding 40°C in the Tajo, Guadiana, and Guadalquivir river valleys, while many regions could linger around 38°C.
Right now, temperatures are rising and August is shaping up to feel sleepy in its first half, especially in the west and south of the Iberian Peninsula. Nights will stay warm as well, with thermometers often above 20°C or 22°C in most areas, and above 25°C in the center, south, and along the Mediterranean coast where sea temperatures remain unusually high.
This pattern signals a new heat period, the third this year. Aemet noted that if this heat episode confirms, it should be less intense and more confined in spread than those seen previously.
A new period of high temperatures awaits, a hot and dry August PEXELS
Yesterday was already very hot in many places, particularly in the center, south, and west. In those zones, the main river valleys saw readings exceed 35°C and at times top 40°C.
Over the next days, minimum temperatures will rise in the west and southwest while cooling slightly in the northeast and remaining steady elsewhere. Rain and storms are forecast to be widespread in the interior of the eastern half of the peninsula, with hail reported in the north of Catalonia where warnings are active.
More than 40°C in Extremadura
Extremadura issued an orange heat warning due to significant risk, with maximums above 40°C observed in Badajoz and across five other communities. Yesterday saw a yellow alert across Andalucia, two Castillas, Galicia, and Madrid for temperatures around 39°C.
Today, Sunday, heat warnings could spread further into southern Andalusia, Extremadura, parts of Castilla-La Mancha, and the already affected areas of Galicia as rainfall chances rise to the west. Storm activity is expected to continue in the east and northeast.
The health impacts of heat are a priority. The National Plan of Preventive Actions for High Temperatures advises limiting midday sun exposure and heavy exertion, staying hydrated, shielding the head, and paying special attention to children, the elderly, and the sick.
Residents are urged to avoid risky mountain behavior that could trigger wildfires, such as discarding cigarette butts, littering, or operating machinery during heat. If smoke is observed, authorities request calling 112 immediately.
Aemet warns of extreme wildfire risk across much of the country, with the greatest probability in Galicia, the Basque Country, Navarra, Castillas, Extremadura, and Andalucia. The risk remains very high in most areas, except the eastern and northeastern regions where conditions are comparatively cooler.