With Spain facing a prolonged heatwave, the Ministry of Health has issued ten essential tips to reduce the most serious health risks for the population. After AEMET indicated the heat could last until Wednesday, the possibility remains that it may extend into Friday the 17th.
Extreme heat can disrupt vital bodily functions when the body cannot compensate for temperature changes, potentially causing sunstroke or heatstroke and worsening existing health conditions. In response, the Ministry has activated the National Plan for preventive actions against the health effects of extreme temperatures on days of intense heat.
This plan provides practical information designed to prevent and lessen heat related harm, with a focus on protecting vulnerable groups such as older adults, pregnant individuals, children, and people with chronic illnesses, especially those who work outdoors or exert themselves in hot conditions.
To minimize health damage from extreme temperatures, here are ten general recommendations to follow over the next days:
1. Drink water and fluids regularly, even if thirst is not felt, and regardless of physical activity.
2. Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, or high sugar drinks as they can promote dehydration.
3. While heat can affect anyone, pay particular attention to infants and young children, pregnant or nursing people, and the elderly or ill individuals whose conditions may worsen with heat such as heart or kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, mobility impairments, dementia, or substance misuse.
4. Seek cool environments for as long as possible, stay in shade or air conditioned spaces, and refresh whenever needed.
5. Limit physical activity and avoid outdoor sports at midday when heat peaks.
6. Wear light, loose clothing that allows the skin to breathe.
7. Never leave anyone in a locked vehicle, especially children, the elderly, or chronically ill people.
8. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than an hour and may be linked to high temperatures.
9. Store medications in a cool place since heat can alter their composition and effectiveness.
10. Eat light meals to help replenish salts lost through sweat, such as salads, fruits, vegetables, and juices.
Hydration remains crucial, and outdoor activity at midday should be avoided when possible.
All information about the National Plan and heat risk levels is available from the Ministry of Health through official notices and forecast updates. Public subscriptions exist to receive daily temperature and risk level information by email or SMS for selected provinces at no cost. These services help residents plan safer activities and protect vulnerable groups. Sources include official health communications and weather agency briefings, cited for reference.
– The heat event tends to be intense and unusual for June. Forecasters anticipate very high temperatures, particularly at the weekend, with sustained heat continuing into Friday in parts of the peninsula. Readings may exceed 42 degrees Celsius in some areas.
According to forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency, temperatures will remain very high across the peninsula and the Balearic Islands at least until midweek, with possible extension depending on atmospheric conditions. The upcoming weekend is expected to show a pronounced heat peak, and thermometers are projected to rise overall in the days ahead.
Environmental authorities are monitoring the situation and providing ongoing updates through official channels. For further guidance, refer to weather agency briefings and health ministry advisories as conditions evolve.
Contact information for the environment department is kept on official channels for inquiries related to risk levels and public safety.