Spain: High temperatures forecast to persist over much of the country through at least July 24

Forecast models indicate high temperatures will persist across much of Spain through at least July 24. The Spanish State Meteorological Service (Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia, AEMET) has issued a bulletin advising a warm air mass moving in from North Africa will bring a progressive rise in temperatures over large parts of peninsular Spain and the Balearic Islands from July 17. The peak of the heatwave is likely to occur July 18-21. The highest temperatures are forecast over the southern half and northeastern parts of the peninsula. with maximums of over 38 C (100 F) likely in many areas and highs of up to 44 C (111 F) possible in places. Highs of around 36-38 C (97-100 F) are possible in northern regions. Temperatures are likely to begin to moderate in northern regions from around July 20 but the heat may persist in southern regions through at least July 24.

As of July 16, AEMET has issued yellow high-temperature warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across parts of central and eastern Andalucia, southeastern Castile-La Mancha, and eastern Mrucia autonomous communities July 16. Orange high-temperature warnings are in place for parts of north-central and northeastern Andalucia and yellow warnings across parts of Andalucia, Castile La-Mancha, and Madrid autonomous communities July 17. Further orange high-temperature warnings are in place for parts of central, northeastern, and western Andalucia, south-central Aragon, eastern and southern Castile-La Mancha, central and western Extremadura, Madrid, and southern Navarre autonomous communities July 18, as well as yellow warnings across large parts of central, northeastern, southern, and western mainland Spain and Mallorca in the Balearic Islands. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for additional wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also pose a threat to 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 being hospitalized for dehydration.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, 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 vehicles, 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.