Spain is bracing for another surge of extreme heat as the final week of the canícula brings a sharp rise in temperatures. Forecasts point to highs of 43°C in several regions. The latest meteorological outlook says a strong anticyclonic system will lead temperatures higher, especially from Wednesday, when a solar eclipse is also due, with the heat peaking on Thursday. Authorities have issued widespread weather alerts for much of the peninsula, warning of risks both day and night.
The most intense heat is expected in the south and interior, particularly in the Guadalquivir valley, where temperatures could reach 43°C. The Ebro valley is also forecast to reach around 41°C, while parts of Andalusia and Extremadura may see temperatures at or above 40°C. Castilla-La Mancha is also expected to reach that level. In many areas of the central plateau and eastern interior, temperatures will easily exceed 35°C. Saharan dust will spread across much of the country, reducing air quality and visibility, especially in the southern half, though it may also reach some northern areas.
This episode stands out for the persistence of high temperatures at night as well as during the day. A warm air mass and stable atmospheric conditions will prevent impressive cooling after sunset. So, tropical nights, when temperatures do not drop below 20°C, will become widespread. Many cities will also endure torrid nights, with minimums staying above 25°C. On Thursday morning, minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 24°C in Barcelona and reach 25°C in parts of Murcia. Similar levels are forecast in Valencia and Alicante, as well as on the Mediterranean coast, including Málaga and Almería. Mallorca is also likely to see minimums close to 25°C. The following night, from Thursday to Friday, will be even more impressive: minimums are expected to stay above 20°C across much of the peninsula, with values near or above 25°C again in Mediterranean and Balearic areas.
Meteorologist Andrea Danta says the heatwave will be driven by a mass of very warm air from lower latitudes, intensified by a strengthening anticyclonic ridge. The most severe conditions are expected between Wednesday and Thursday, when the thermal peak will coincide with the highest risk of health impacts, especially for vulnerable groups. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has extended its warnings to cover most of the country, with the strongest alerts in the centre and south; the northeast is also affected. AEMET’s station network reports hourly observations and daily temperature extremes. It also provides summaries covering the preceding seven days, recording local conditions as the episode unfolds. Afternoon storms may develop inland, potentially bringing strong, localised downpours.
While the heat will begin to ease slightly in the north and west by Friday, high temperatures will persist in the Ebro valley and much of the east. Suspended dust will continue to affect air quality, adding to residents’ discomfort. Persistently high nighttime temperatures are expected to make sleep difficult in many provinces, and the week’s average minimum is likely to be the highest of the summer so far. This pattern of extreme heat and poor air quality has already caused impressive disruption in recent years, including mass evacuations during wildfires, as seen in recent incidents in Segovia and Castellón.
Heatwaves of this intensity are becoming more frequent in Spain. The canícula, traditionally the hottest period of the year, is now often marked by prolonged spells of extreme temperatures and persistent Saharan dust. Health authorities recommend staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activity during peak hours. They urge extra care for vulnerable groups, including children and older adults; people with chronic illnesses also need special attention. The current episode is expected to last until at least the end of the week, with gradual relief only in some regions. Spanish cities face growing challenges in managing heat risks, as urban infrastructure and housing are often ill-equipped for persistent nighttime warmth.
