Aemet has activated orange alerts for storms and hail in Valencia and Alicante. Temperatures are set to fall sharply after record heat. Coastal areas remain under heat warnings.
Weather conditions in the Comunitat Valenciana have shifted dramatically after a period of record-breaking heat. On Thursday, Aemet placed much of the region under an orange alert due to the risk of intense storms and hail, marking a clear end to the extreme temperatures that forced the closure of natural parks and extended pool hours just a day earlier.
The rapid passage of a trough across the Iberian Peninsula, combined with the arrival of a cooler polar air mass, is driving a significant drop in temperatures. According to Aemet, this change will be felt across the region, with the most severe weather expected along the coast and in the southern interior of Valencia province, as well as inland areas of Alicante. Forecasts indicate rainfall totals could reach 40mm in just one hour, with storms bringing strong gusts of wind and the possibility of large hailstones.
While the oppressive heat is receding, it has not disappeared entirely. Coastal districts remain under a yellow alert for high temperatures, with values up to 36°C and isolated peaks of 39°C possible in parts of Valencia and Castellón. Elsewhere in the region, yellow alerts for rain and storms are in effect, except for the southern part of Alicante, which is expected to avoid the worst of the precipitation. In these areas, rainfall could reach 20mm per hour, and storms may also bring hail and very strong winds.
In addition to the storm warnings, Aemet has issued yellow coastal alerts for the shores of Valencia and Alicante. Westerly and southwesterly winds are forecast to generate waves of up to three meters in Alicante, increasing the risk for maritime activities. The combination of heavy rain, hail, and strong winds is expected to disrupt daily routines and could impact transport and outdoor events.
The weather shift is not limited to the immediate forecast. Over the coming weekend, temperatures are set to fall further, with the cooler trend likely to persist into the start of next week. Localized heavy showers are also possible in the northern parts of the Comunitat Valenciana. This pattern of abrupt weather changes has been seen elsewhere in Spain recently; for example, the Canary Islands have faced their own challenges with rising temperatures and strong winds, highlighting the volatility of weather across the country.
For residents and visitors in the affected areas, authorities recommend staying informed about the latest updates from Aemet and taking precautions, especially in zones under orange and yellow alerts. The rapid transition from heat to storms underscores the importance of monitoring official warnings and being prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. The Comunitat Valenciana, known for its typically stable Mediterranean climate, is experiencing a period of heightened meteorological risk that may affect daily life, travel, and local infrastructure. As the situation develops, further advisories may be issued depending on the evolution of the storms and temperature drops.
