AEMET, the meteorological agency in Spain, has issued extreme heat red alerts for several regions in Murcia due to the ongoing third heatwave hitting Europe. Temperatures in some areas are expected to reach up to 44°C, nearing the historical record of 47.6°C set five years ago, posing “abnormal danger”.
The highest level of emergency alerts cover Vega del Segura, Guadalentin Valley, Lorca, and Aguilas, where temperatures are predicted to reach 44°C between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Popular tourist destinations in Spain like Malaga, Valencia, and Alicante could see temperatures soaring to 42°C.
The extreme weather has led to devastating wildfires across the European continent, with over 10,000 people evacuated near Bordeaux in southwestern France.
Wildfires have also affected popular holiday spots in Italy, including Sicily and Sardinia.
The first heatwave in Europe this year began in late May, breaking temperature records in countries such as Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Czech Republic, Denmark, Spain, and the UK.
Since around May 22, temperatures in Europe have been 10-15°C (18-27°F) higher than usual, setting the highest temperatures recorded in May and spring.
Western Europe has been the most severely impacted region, with France, the UK, and Ireland reaching historic summer temperatures. Portugal hit 40°C (104°F), and Spain reached a high of 38°C (100°F).
A more severe second wave of heat began on June 17. The French meteorological agency reported June 23 as the hottest day in the country since 1947, with temperatures of 44.3°C (111.7°F) in Pissos, 42.1°C (107.8°F) in Bordeaux, and 40.9°C (105.6°F) in Paris.
According to the EuroMOMO mortality monitoring center, the heatwave in June led to a significant increase in deaths across Europe, with 14,000 more deaths compared to the same period in previous years.
– Stay in cool places for as long as possible
– Maintain a light diet, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
– Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated, alcoholic, or sugary drinks
– Schedule physical activities during the earliest or latest hours of the day
Health experts advise avoiding heatstroke and other consequences, such as skin inflammation or burns, sunburn, cramps, or heat syncope.
“In some cases, they could lead to more serious consequences, even endangering life or leaving serious sequelae.”