Intense heat advisory resurfaces as per AEMET announcement
Extreme Heatwave Warning Issued in Spain: AEMET Urges Caution and Precautions
Spain is bracing itself for an extended heatwave from August 4 to August 24, 2025, with temperatures expected to soar in several regions. The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a special warning, advising the public to take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period [1][2].
According to AEMET's forecast, which is based on the European Centre's Extended Range Prediction System (EPS), temperatures in southern and southwestern regions may exceed 42°C. Yellow and amber alerts have been activated in provinces such as Málaga, warning of temperatures reaching up to 39-42°C [2][3].
Local governments are also taking measures to combat the heatwave. Bottled water is being distributed in urban areas, and some have activated heat emergency plans. Cooling centres (day centres and social centres) are being opened to provide relief from the sweltering heat [3].
AEMET and local authorities recommend several precautions to stay safe during the heatwave. They advise avoiding exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, staying hydrated, limiting outdoor physical activity especially during the hottest parts of the day, seeking cool or air-conditioned places, and monitoring vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children closely [1][2][3].
Nighttime temperatures remain high, causing uncomfortable "tropical nights," making rest and recovery more difficult. The prolonged heat exposure could pose severe risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions [1].
Given the elevated wildfire risk in tinderbox dry areas, authorities recommend avoiding activities that could spark fires and closely following any wildfire evacuation orders or safety instructions issued by civil protection services [1]. Minimal precipitation is forecast during the heatwave, which will exacerbate dry conditions and wildfire risks.
AEMET will provide updated forecasts and warnings on its website, www.aemet.es. The public is advised to stay well hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seek air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
The heatwave is expected to affect the southwestern and central regions of the country. This warning comes amid a significant rise in heat-related deaths in Spain. Between May 16 and July 13, 2022, 1,180 heat-related deaths were recorded in Spain, which is a stark increase from 114 in the same period last year [4]. From June 2025, at least 380 deaths were attributed to extreme heat in Spain [5].
Being vigilant to changing weather alerts during the extended period of extreme heat is critical. AEMET advises regular monitoring for real-time updates to ensure safety and well-being during this challenging time.
- While the heatwave persists in Spain, it's vital to prioritize mental health alongside physical safety, as the prolonged exposure to extreme heat can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
- The heatwave isn't just a threat to physical health; it also poses challenges to environmental science, with minimal precipitation exacerbating drought conditions and adding to the already pressing issue of climate change, impacting health-and-wellness and the overall well-being of the ecosystem.
