**Spain Issues Amber Alert Amid Scorching Heatwave Threatening Major Holiday Destinations**
Spanish authorities have issued an unusual amber weather alert as the nation faces an intense heatwave, putting key tourist areas on high guard. The country’s meteorological agency, AEMET, has warned that soaring temperatures could reach a blistering 42°C in certain inland areas, raising concerns among locals and the multitude of British holidaymakers who flock to Spain every summer.
The alert, a relatively rare move by Spain’s forecasters, comes as meteorologists expect an unrelenting period of exceptional heat through at least Sunday, 10 August. Beginning on 3 August, both amber and yellow alerts have been announced, spanning almost all of mainland Spain except for the northern region of Cantabria. The warnings have prompted tourists and residents alike to prepare for days of potentially dangerous heat levels.
AEMET’s forecast paints a picture of relentless sunshine and rising mercury, particularly across the southwest and the southern portions of Galicia. “Temperatures are very likely to exceed 38°C and could even touch 42°C in the valleys of the Guadiana, Guadalquivir, and Tagus rivers,” reported the agency. Notably, these river valleys often register the highest temperatures in Spain, making them especially vulnerable during heatwaves.
The popular coastal and island destinations—such as the Canary Islands (including Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria) and the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Menorca, and Majorca)—are all under varying levels of alert. Despite the heatwave’s primary focus on mainland Spain, the islands are not expected to escape unscathed, with visitors advised to take extra precautions.
Interestingly, AEMET predicts slightly cooler conditions along the Cantabrian coast, in contrast to the expected temperature surge in the southeast. The weather agency anticipates “a modest dip in temperatures for the Cantabrian coast, while further inland and towards the southwest, temperatures might ramp up once more as the week progresses.” This fluctuation could create challenging conditions for those travelling between regions or hoping for respite by the seaside.
Holidaymakers from the UK, searching for some sun-soaked relaxation, are being urged to keep a close eye on official weather updates and health advisories. Uncomfortably high overnight temperatures are another concern, especially for vulnerable groups. “Night-time temperatures could remain stubbornly above 23-25°C across significant parts of central and southern Spain, and along the Mediterranean coastline,” said AEMET. Starting from Thursday, this muggy warmth may spread to the southwest and even further inland, affecting sleep and overall comfort.
This extended period of oppressive heat arrives during the peak travel season, coinciding with a surge in British families and other international tourists heading to Spain for their summer holidays. Popular cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Zaragoza are all expected to feel the brunt of the latest heatwave, which could impact sightseeing plans, excursions, and daily routines.
Authorities are urging visitors to heed local guidance, remain hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. There have also been warnings about hefty fines for breaking lesser-known local regulations enacted to protect public safety in extreme conditions, such as bans on barbecues or campfires in certain regions.
While residents and travellers alike are seeking ways to mitigate the impact—by adjusting schedules, seeking air-conditioned environments, and following safety advice—experts stress that the heatwave is just the latest in a series of weather events linked to changes in global climate patterns. Meteorologists will continue to monitor the developing situation, with updates expected over the coming days as the region grapples with this extraordinary period of high temperatures.