Madrid endures another day of extreme heat, with orange alerts in effect. Temperatures reach up to 40°C in the south and center. Relief is expected over the weekend as conditions shift.
Madrid is enduring another day of intense heat, with the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issuing an orange alert for much of the region as temperatures soar to 40°C in some southern and central districts. The warning covers the metropolitan area, Henares, the south, vegas, and the west, while the Sierra remains under a yellow alert due to slightly lower but still significant highs.
According to AEMET forecasts, the highest temperatures are expected in Aranjuez, where the mercury could reach 40°C. Central and southern zones will see maximums between 38°C and 39°C, while the lower areas of the Sierra are likely to record 36°C to 37°C. In the Sierra Norte, only a slight drop in temperatures is anticipated, and minimums across the region will remain elevated, ranging from 21°C to 24°C, with the capital experiencing the warmest nights.
Friday’s weather will be marked by mostly clear skies, though cloud cover is expected to increase during the central hours of the day, with intervals of high and evolving clouds. Isolated showers, possibly accompanied by thunderstorms, cannot be ruled out in the Sierra, especially later in the day. Winds will be light and variable, shifting to a southern component around midday and then to a light easterly direction in the afternoon, with occasional moderate gusts and the possibility of stronger bursts in the southeast.
Looking ahead to the weekend, a noticeable drop in temperatures is forecast, with maximums falling to around 33°C. On Saturday, the Sierra will be under a yellow alert for rain and storms, while minimums could dip to 16°C by Sunday, offering some respite after the prolonged heat. This pattern of abrupt weather changes is not unique to Madrid; earlier this year, southern Valencia experienced severe storms and record winds, as detailed in a recent report on extreme weather events in Alcoi and Villena.
Heatwaves have become increasingly common in Spain over the past decade, often leading to health advisories and disruptions in daily life. The orange alert system is designed to warn residents of potentially dangerous conditions, prompting local authorities to recommend limiting outdoor activities during peak hours and staying hydrated. The combination of high temperatures and possible storms in the Sierra highlights the unpredictable nature of summer weather in central Spain. For many residents, the expected cooldown this weekend will bring much-needed relief after a week of relentless heat.
