Heatwave in Spain peaks this week with 44°C readings – AEMET focuses alerts on interior, South and East coasts

Spain is now entering a period where it’s important to keep an eye on weather conditions and be aware of alerts issued by AEMET, Spain’s official meteorological service. This will help you make decisions about outdoor activities, travel, and planning during potentially hazardous weather events.

Temperatures expected for Sunday through Tuesday

From Sunday, June 21 high readings are expected to increase dramatically in many areas. Valleys such as the Guadalquivir may see local peaks of 42ºC, with the Ebro Valley and northeast depressions also hitting 40ºC. Even the interior of the Basque Country in the north The temperatures in Spain will be similar, and the first red alerts for 2026 will be issued due to alarmingly high levels. Broader inland districts and the Balearics will generally range between 36ºC and 39ºC during this first day.

AEMET warns of extreme heat across most of Extremadura, in the west. Orange alerts are in place in Granada Province, Almeria and Sevilla, while yellow alerts are in Cordoba and Sevilla. Orange alerts are also in place for the southern parts of Mallorca due to extreme temperatures.

🟠 Peligro importante este domingo: temperaturas superiores a 39-40 °C en amplias zonas de la Península y Mallorca.

🟠 Tormentas muy fuertes en el este de Galicia y oeste de Asturias.

🔴 Peligro extraordinario en interior de Bizkaia y Gipuzkoa: más de 40 °C también el lunes. pic.twitter.com/8IC6ygCFVd

— AEMET (@AEMET_Esp) June 21, 2026

The week begins with a scorching heat

The 22nd will see even more increases, especially in the Balearics. Many valley and low-lying areas in the east third are going to reach 40ºC to 42ºC, with some spots going well over that figure. The northern plateau in the Leon region is set to go up to 37ºC to 39ºC. Southern plateau zones, southeast interiors and Balearic interiors are expected to sit at around 37ºC to 40ºC.

Tuesday will bring the highest temperatures of this entire sultry episode along the Cantabric and western coasts. Readings of 40ºC to 42ºC are expected to extend to the interiors of Galicia besides the usual valley hot spots. Anyone planning to finish the Camino de Santiago by this weekend may have to reconsider. The Guadalquivir Valley from Granada to Sevilla could touch close to 44ºC in parts making sightseeing near impossible.

AEMET warns of a possible AEMET strike on the Balearics, Costas Sud-Est and East

Meteorologists at AEMET The special heatwave alert covering the Peninsula and Balearics has been updated for this incident. The warnings highlight the dangers of central time each day. At these times, outdoor activities are more dangerous as well as conditions for those who are vulnerable such as the elderly and people with heart disease. The Balearic Islands and the coastal areas of the east and south are particularly at risk.

It is important that those who live in or visit these places limit sun exposure, and consume water regularly during hotter weather. These alerts are particularly helpful for British expats living in coastal communities in the Balearics or along the southern and eastern coasts.

21/06 11:48 AVISOS HOY Y MAÑANA | España: tormentas, temperaturas máximas y lluvias. Nivel máximo de aviso: rojo.
Actualizaciones en pic.twitter.com/y7YVa232Pq

— AEMET (@AEMET_Esp) June 21, 2026

Wildfires are a danger at night

Minimum values will stay high at night across many areas, staying above 20ºC except in high mountain areas. Tropical nights will no doubt result in many places, while certain depressions of the south and east Peninsula, the north coast and southeast coastlines may exceed a steamy 23ºC to 25ºC. This will affect the comfort level and sleep of people who do not have adequate cooling systems. Wildfires are also more likely to occur in the heat. Dry storms and limited rainfall will only increase the risk of fires. In rural areas and in wooded areas popular for residence or travel, use caution.

National picture of travel for all those who plan to travel

Hot weather can be found almost anywhere in Spain. There will be some serious increases in the interior of the northern part, particularly along with the north coast. Galician interiors join the hotter areas. The preparation is useful everywhere. Air-conditioned indoor visits and early starts are helpful.

The majority of areas will see some easing from Wednesday, June 24, it is hopedThe temperatures along the north coast are expected to continue rising for some time.