The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts a very intense heat episode starting this Thursday that could lead to the first heatwave of the summer in Spain. Although the agency has not yet officially declared this extreme episode, forecasts point to a generalized and sharp rise in temperatures that will leave values well above normal for this time of year.
It will coincide with the start of astronomical summer, scheduled for next Sunday, June 21, and will particularly affect the peninsular center and south. According to AEMET, temperatures could be between five and ten degrees above the normal values for mid-June in large areas of the country.
The areas where temperatures will exceed 40 degrees
Weather forecasts place the highest readings in the Guadalquivir valley, Extremadura, and the interior of Castilla-La Mancha. Cities such as Córdoba, Seville, Badajoz, or Ciudad Real could exceed 40 degrees during the weekend. Maximums close to 38 or 39 degrees are also expected in Madrid, Toledo, Zaragoza, Lleida, and other points in the peninsular interior.
AEMET also forecasts tropical nights in numerous areas of the Mediterranean, the Ebro valley, and the peninsular southwest, with minimum temperatures not dropping below 20 degrees. In some parts of the Mediterranean coast and the Guadalquivir valley, equatorial nights could even be recorded, with minimums above 25 degrees.
Meanwhile, the peninsular north will experience a notable thermal rise, although temperatures will be somewhat more contained due to the possible appearance of storms during the afternoons.
When a heatwave is officially considered
AEMET does not declare a heatwave solely because extreme temperatures are reached. For an episode to receive that consideration, several criteria related to the intensity of the heat, its geographical extent, and its duration must be met.
Among other requirements, abnormally high temperatures must affect a significant part of the territory for at least three consecutive days. For this reason, the agency maintains caution for the moment and speaks of a "very intense heat episode" that could end up meeting the necessary thresholds.
The Ministry of Health maintains active since mid-May the National Plan of Preventive Actions on the Effects of Excessive Temperatures on Health, which will remain in force until next September 30.
Health authorities recommend extreme hydration, avoiding sun exposure during the central hours of the day, and paying special attention to the elderly, minors, and those suffering from chronic illnesses.