Spain has officially exited a historic June heatwave, but high humidity keeps health risks elevated. Authorities warn that dangerous conditions persist, especially for older residents. Relief will be gradual across the country.
Spain has officially emerged from a historic heatwave, but the threat from extreme temperatures is far from over. The Spanish meteorological agency Aemet declared an end to the exceptional weather event on Thursday, following several days of record-breaking June temperatures. However, the country now faces a new challenge: persistent, dangerous humid heat that continues to pose serious health risks.
According to a recent study by Climate Central, the number of days with hazardous humid heat in Spain has more than doubled since the 1970s, rising from 10 to 23 days per year. This combination of high temperature and humidity makes it harder for the body to cool itself through sweating, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. The impact is especially severe for older adults, who are more vulnerable to heatstroke and related complications.
June 22 and 23 have entered the record books as the hottest June days in Spain since 1950. In Cantabria, the town of Tama registered a staggering 43.7°C, setting a new regional record and highlighting the intensity of this year's heatwave. While Spain begins to see a gradual drop in temperatures, the relief is expected to be slow, and the health risks associated with humid heat remain a pressing concern.
Elsewhere in Europe, the situation remains tense. The World Meteorological Organization has forecast that abnormal heat will persist for at least two more weeks across large parts of the continent. In some regions, temperatures are expected to stay between three and ten degrees above normal, keeping much of Europe under thermal stress even as Spain starts to recover.
For context, Spain has experienced a notable increase in extreme weather events over the past decade, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and intense. The government has implemented public health campaigns and early warning systems to help residents cope with rising temperatures. Experts emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during peak heat, and monitoring vulnerable populations. These measures are now more critical than ever as climate patterns continue to shift and the risks associated with heatwaves grow.
