Spain: High temperatures forecast to persist over various regions through at least July 12

Forecast models indicate high temperatures will persist across parts of central, eastern, and southern Spain through at least July 12. Maximum temperatures of 34-41 C (93-106 F) are expected across the affected area over the coming days.

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Agencia Estatal de Meteolrogia, AEMET) has issued the following warnings across the affected area July 10-12:

• Orange high-temperature warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of southeastern Castile-La Mancha and eastern Murcia autonomous communities July 10 and parts of central, eastern, and northern Andalucia, central Aragon, southeastern Castile-La Mancha, and south-central Valencia autonomous communities July 11.

• Yellow high-temperature warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and northern Andalucia, central Aragon, southeastern Castile-La Mancha, western Catalonia, northeastern and northwestern Murcia, northern La Rioja, southern Navarre, and southern Valencia autonomous communities July 10; across much of the affected area not under orange warnings July 11; and much of Murcia and parts of eastern and southern Andalucia, southeastern Castile-La Mancha, and southern Valencia autonomous community July 12.

Authorities could 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.