Europe: Heat warnings across southern regions through at least Aug. 16 /update 1

Event

Officials have issued various weather warnings for excessive heat across southern Europe through at least Aug. 16. The affected area includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, western Croatia, southwestern Italy, eastern Portugal, and most of Spain. As of early Aug. 12, the following warnings are in place:

• Red warnings (the highest level on a three tier-scale): Sardinia and Sicily regions in Italy; western and southern Dubrovnik-Neretva, Istria, western Lika-Senj, western Primorje-Gorski-Kotar, western Sibenik-Knin, western Split-Dalmatia, and western Zadar counties in Croatia; western Catalonia and central Aragon autonomous communities in Spain.

• Orange warnings (second-highest level): Southern Bosnia and Herzegovina; southern Croatia; northeastern, southern, and central Spain, including central Palma de Mallorca.

• Yellow warnings: the rest of the affected area.

Officials could upgrade or expand the alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also threaten vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may damage road surfaces, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink bottled or boiled water. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Meteoalarm
Servizio Meteorologico, Italy (Italian)
Bosnia and Herzegovina Meteorological Institute
Croatia Meteorological and Hydrological Service (Croatian)
Portugal Instituto de Meteorologia (Portuguese)
Spain Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia (Spanish)