Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s transition into summer began with a sharp contrast in weather conditions. As of June 1, the national meteorological agency Aemet has issued alerts in 17 provinces for either extreme heat or thunderstorms.
While the south bakes in temperatures approaching 40ºC, parts of the north and northeast face the threat of heavy storms and strong winds.
Seville and inland areas approach 40ºC
Aemet raised an orange alert for Seville due to soaring temperatures. Yellow warnings were also activated across several Andalucian provinces. Inland regions, including Córdoba, Ciudad Real, Badajoz, and Zaragoza, are also experiencing highs nearing 40ºC.
In Extremadura and the Guadalquivir Valley, heat is expected to persist, with conditions intensified by warm air masses. The Canary Islands are experiencing similar inland heat patterns.
Some areas are also reporting calima, a dust-laden haze that degrades air quality and reduces visibility.
Northern Spain prepares for thunderstorms
While southern Spain deals with heat, residents in the north are bracing for storms. Warnings have been issued in Huesca, Teruel, Zaragoza, Soria, Burgos, Álava, La Rioja, and Navarra. Catalonia’s provinces, including Barcelona, Girona, and Lleida, are also under alert.
Some of these storms may be dry, producing lightning and gusts without significant rainfall. This can increase the risk of wildfires, especially in forested or rural zones.
Atmospheric conditions behind the instability
According to Aemet, the mix of a high-pressure system and an Atlantic trough is creating volatile weather patterns. This explains the simultaneous presence of heat in the south and instability in the north.
Low morning cloud and localised fog are forecast in areas such as Galicia, the Cantabrian coast, the Ebro valley, and around Alborán.
Winds vary by region
Wind directions are shifting across regions. In Alborán, easterly winds dominate. Northerly winds are expected along the Galician coast, while trade winds will continue to influence the Canary Islands.
Elsewhere, wind direction may vary and change rapidly with the storms.
Public advised to monitor conditions
Health and emergency services recommend basic precautions. These include drinking water frequently, staying indoors during peak temperatures, and avoiding travel or outdoor activities during storm warnings.
People in affected areas should monitor local advisories and Aemet’s updates for the most accurate information.
Sources: Aemet, Europapress