A powerful heatwave hits Catalunya, pushing temperatures above 40°C. Authorities activate emergency plans amid extreme wildfire risk, especially in Girona. The situation is expected to worsen in the coming days.
Emergency measures are in effect across Catalunya as a new and intense heatwave sweeps the region, driving temperatures above 40°C in several areas and triggering the highest wildfire risk alerts of the summer. The authorities have activated the PROCICAT plan since Friday, responding to forecasts that predict the heat will persist until at least Thursday. The most critical situation is unfolding in the Empordà area, where 20 municipalities are now under an 'extreme' fire risk, prompting the Cuerpo de Agents Rurals to implement level 4 of the Plan Alfa—the maximum alert for wildfires. This is the first time this year that the highest level has been declared.
The Meteorological Service of Catalunya warns that the heatwave, driven by a combination of a dry, hot air mass and a high-pressure system, will bring not only scorching daytime highs but also tropical nights across the territory. On Sunday, maximum temperatures are expected to reach between 38°C and 40°C in Ponent, the interior, Empordà, Terres de l'Ebre, and the Barcelona pre-coastal area. Notable readings include 38.8°C in Cabanes, 38.4°C in Espolla, and 38.1°C in Vinebre. The forecast indicates that from Tuesday, some locations could see temperatures surpassing 42°C, with Monday and Tuesday likely to be the most intense days. Orange and yellow weather warnings have been issued for several comarcas.
Authorities are particularly concerned about the risk to public safety, especially along the Barcelona coast, where 13 heat-related deaths have been recorded since mid-June. Protecció Civil is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions, as the combination of high temperatures, thunderstorms, and ongoing drought conditions significantly increases the likelihood of wildfires. In addition to the 20 municipalities at the highest alert, another 119 are now at level 3, indicating a very high risk. The situation is being closely monitored in Catalunya Central, Ponent, and Terres de l'Ebre, where further restrictions or closures may be imposed depending on how the risk evolves.
The heatwave is not limited to Catalunya. Across Spain, temperatures are expected to exceed 42°C in the valleys of the Tajo, Guadiana, and Guadalquivir, amplifying the threat of wildfires nationwide. The head of the Bombers, David Borrell, has highlighted the exceptional danger posed by the current conditions. The authorities are coordinating efforts to prevent and respond to potential incidents, with emergency services on high alert throughout the affected regions.
Recent years have seen Catalunya and other parts of Spain increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and severe. The activation of the highest fire risk level in Empordà underscores the urgency of the current situation. For context, the region has also been in the spotlight for its ambitious event hosting, as seen when Barcelona welcomed the Tour de France, reflecting the area's capacity to manage large-scale challenges and emergencies. More on this can be found in the article about Catalunya's approach to major international events. As the heatwave continues, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and follow all safety recommendations to minimize health risks and prevent new fire outbreaks.
Spain's experience with heatwaves has led to the development of comprehensive emergency protocols, including public health advisories, fire prevention strategies, and coordination between regional and national agencies. The current episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the importance of preparedness in the face of increasingly volatile weather patterns.
