Heatwave in Southern Europe: Spain Declares Red Alert, Portugal and France Also Affected

Wildfires are also currently raging in Portugal. Portuguese emergency services are battling multiple fires that are repeatedly being reignited by the combination of heat, drought, and wind.

Forest Fires in Portugal and the Pyrenees

In the Pyrenees, French firefighters are battling a forest fire that has injured at least 16 people, according to authorities. The fire is continuing to spread due to the ongoing drought and high temperatures, according to emergency services.

Spain has repeatedly struggled with severe forest fires and heatwaves in recent years. The Mediterranean coast as well as the interior of the south and east of the country are frequently particularly affected.

Authorities called on the population to protect themselves from the sun, drink sufficient water, and avoid strenuous physical activities outdoors. Elderly people, children, and individuals with pre-existing conditions were also pointed to the special risks.

The situation was particularly tense in the three affected Spanish regions. In Catalonia, home to cities like Barcelona, authorities warned of rising temperatures in the coming days.

Situation in the Spanish Regions

In Valencia, already known for its hot summers, public swimming pools and air-conditioned facilities were opened as places for the population to go. Tightened warning notices were also in effect in Aragon.

Tourist centers along the Spanish Mediterranean coast were also affected. Beaches and city centers were sparsely visited during the day, as many tourists and locals avoided the midday heat.

France, meanwhile, was preparing for a continuation of the extreme weather situation. In the 61 departments under orange alert, public facilities and hospitals were placed on standby.

Measures and Appeals from Authorities

Meteorologists warned that nights would bring little cooling in some regions, further increasing the strain on the body. In major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, temperatures often remain above 25 degrees even after sunset.

Water scarcity is also worsening according to observations by the authorities. Restrictions on irrigation of agricultural land and private water consumption are already in place in several regions of Spain.

Firefighters appealed to the public not to light open fires outdoors and to dispose of cigarette butts carefully. Even small sparks could trigger a widespread fire given the current dryness.

Weather models predicted only a slow cooling for the coming days. A slight drop in temperature is not expected in parts of Spain and France until later in the week.

Authorities in the affected countries intend to continue monitoring the situation closely and adjust warning levels if necessary. Travel to the affected regions should also be postponed if possible or adapted to current guidance.