Galicia faced a severe heatwave with temperatures close to 40°C inland. Authorities imposed a red alert in 109 municipalities and suspended all outdoor sports. The episode disrupted daily life and triggered emergency measures across the region.
Galicia was gripped by an intense heatwave on Sunday, prompting the regional government to declare a red alert in 109 municipalities and halt all outdoor federated and school sports in affected areas. The emergency measures came as temperatures soared, with many beaches reaching full capacity and inland thermometers approaching 40°C. The Xunta's decision aimed to reduce health risks as the first major heat episode of the summer hit the region.
According to MeteoGalicia, Ourense recorded the highest temperature, peaking at 39°C at 15:30, while Lugo followed with 36°C. In Lugo province, the mountain areas faced a double threat: after the heat alert, an orange warning for storms was issued from 3 p.m., with forecasts of hail and rainfall up to 30 liters per square meter in one hour. This led the Directorate General of Emergencies and Interior to urge caution on the roads due to the risk of sudden downpours and slippery conditions.
Elsewhere, Santiago and Ferrol experienced maximums of 34°C and 33°C, respectively. In contrast, Pontevedra and Vigo saw temperatures reach 28°C, while A Coruña remained the coolest among the major cities at 27°C. The heatwave drove thousands to the coast, filling beaches and straining local infrastructure as residents sought relief from the oppressive conditions.
Looking ahead, MeteoGalicia forecasts a slight drop in temperatures for Monday, though warm weather will persist across the region. Isolated showers are possible along the coastal strip between Fisterra and A Guarda, and a light northeast wind is expected to ease the heat in areas such as A Mariña and Costa da Morte. However, by Tuesday, a new surge of hot air is predicted, with temperatures potentially exceeding 40°C in the Miño area of Ourense and the southern part of Pontevedra. The warm air mass is set to spread across Galicia, with highs of up to 36°C anticipated in the interior of A Coruña, the Rías Baixas, and Terra Chá.
Spain has seen a rise in extreme weather events in recent years, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and intense. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) regularly issues alerts to help local authorities manage risks. Galicia, known for its milder Atlantic climate, has faced several record-breaking temperature episodes since 2020, highlighting the growing impact of climate change on the region's weather patterns and public health planning.
