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SPAIN’S weather forecaster has issued a red weather alert for two new regions. A punishing heatwave is continuing to grip large areas of the country.
Interior areas of Gipuzkoa in the Basque country and the Ribera del Ebro region of Zaragoza are now under the highest ‘red alert’ level, with temperatures expected to exceed 40C and 42C respectively.
Officials have warned of ‘extraordinary danger’ as the extreme heat poses serious health risks.
The heatwave that started on August 3 is expected to last until Wednesday.
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A high-pressure system has trapped hot, dry air across the Peninsula and Canaries, creating what meteorologists describe as a ‘stationary’ weather pattern that shows little sign of immediate change.
The temperatures are expected to rise above 42C, especially in the lower Guadalquivir Valley. However, the Ebro Valley and the northeastern depressions may also reach this dangerous level.
Much of inland Spain will swelter under temperatures of 37-39C, with the heat extending to areas around the Júcar and Segura rivers and even reaching the interior of the Basque Country.
Canary Islands have their own extreme weather conditions. Haze and heat are abounding on the island archipelago.
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In the interior of the eastern islands, mercury levels could reach 40-42C. Similar conditions are possible in the Anaga mass.
Even those living on the coast will be affected by temperatures that never drop below 25C at night, but can reach up to 30C in certain parts of Gran Canaria.
In many parts of Spain, nighttime relief is elusive. Minimum temperatures are above 22-25C on the southern half, along the Mediterranean coastline, in the Ebro valley, and in depressions to the northeast.
The lack of cooling can pose additional health risks to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
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As southerly wind takes hold, temperatures are now rising on the northern coast.
In the interior Cantabrian valleys, areas that are usually cooler in summer have recorded highs between 34 and 36C.
Evening thunderstorms may bring some relief to the northern mountain ranges, but they could also bring with them their own hazards such as very strong winds gusts and localised rain.
Storms may add uncertainty to the temperature forecasts, but provide temporary relief from stifling temperatures.
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Meteorologists anticipate that temperatures will start to drop gradually on Wednesday, beginning in the northwestern regions including Galicia.
Despite the improvement in conditions, certain regions could still be considered heatwaves due to the extreme temperatures experienced during the episode.
The weather service continues to give a probability of 80% for continued extreme weather. It urges residents and visitors alike to take precautions, such as staying hydrated, refraining from outdoor activities at peak times, and keeping an eye on elderly relatives and neighbours.
The Olive Press has more weather news. Click here to view it.
