Spain is facing a heatwave for the second time this summer, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in some places. In Portugal, a red alert has been issued due to the heat, and there are fears of new wildfires.
In the Spanish region of Andalusia, temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius are expected, but in Seville, it could even reach 42 degrees Celsius. Temperatures in southwestern Spain are also above 40 degrees Celsius, making it an average of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius warmer than normal.
The Spanish meteorological service Aemet warns that the temperatures could persist until Sunday. It is uncertain whether it will cool down afterward.
In Portugal, a heightened state of alert has been in effect since Sunday due to the expected heat and the risk of wildfires. The ‘alarm status’ lasts until August 8. The government fears temperatures that could rise to between 36 and 44 degrees Celsius in the coming days. At night, it would be at least 20 degrees Celsius.
The highest temperatures could occur inland east of Lisbon in the Alentejo region and in the Douro River valley in the north. The heightened state of alert includes the possibility for local authorities to prohibit access to forest areas, the prohibition of making fires there, and all work with machinery in rural areas is not allowed.
Slightly less hot in France and Italy
The south of France is also preparing for warm days. It will not be as hot there as in Spain and Portugal, but it can reach around 35 degrees Celsius. In the center and north of France, it will be slightly less warm, with temperatures around 25 and 30 degrees Celsius.
In Italy, the weather has been anything but summery in recent days, but that will change from Tuesday. From then on, there will be temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius. After the weekend, they could easily rise to 35 to 40 degrees Celsius.