Temperatures in excess of 40ºC expected.
Credit: Vereshchagin Dmitry – Shutterstock
The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange alert for Tuesday, August 19, across the Costa del Sol, Malaga city, and Guadalhorce Valley, and a yellow alert for Axarquía, as searing temperatures and terral winds grip the region.
The terral breeze is blowing hot, superheated air down the south coast from the center of the country. It gives people the impression that they are being blown away by a huge hairdryer.
From 1pm to 9pm, temperatures are expected to hit in excess of 39°C in the Costa del Sol, Guadalhorce Valley, and Malaga capital. Extreme heat coincident with Malaga Feria poses a serious threat to life, especially for vulnerable groups.
Andalucía, including the Costa del Sol, has been hit hard by heat this summer, with 134 heat-related deaths reported between June and July 2025, doubling the 68 deaths from the same period in 2024. Spain saw 1,180 heat-related deaths from May 16 through July 13 – a 10 fold increase over the 114 that occurred in 2024. Most victims were over 65, with 129 of Andalucía’s fatalities being in this age group, 84 women. High temperatures are particularly dangerous for the elderly, children, pregnant woman, and people with chronic diseases.
Monday’s temperatures highlighted the severity, with Álora reaching over 42°C, and Coín and Fuente de Piedra going past 41°C. Residents and tourists are urged to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities between 12pm and 5pm and pay attention to vulnerable people. The heatwave continues Wednesday with yellow alerts and temperatures around 36°C, though Antequera and Ronda continue with the warnings.
This summer, Spain is experiencing its fourth-most deadly heat related deaths. There were 1,510 deaths in Spain from June 21, 2025 to August 7, 20,25. This represents a 30 percent increase from 2024. Experts attribute this increase to temperature spikes caused by climate change, June 2025 being the hottest month on record in Spain.
AEMET has forecasted a cooling trend for the Costa del Sol by the end week. This means that the weather will be milder, allowing you to enjoy the coast and festivities in the area. Drink plenty of water and stay cool. You can look forward to a more comfortable day.