Lorraine Williamson
An unseasonal, early heatwave is set to affect large parts of Spain (especially southern parts of the country) over the coming days, with meteorologists warning of unusually high temperatures for late May.
From Saturday, 25 May, areas in the southwest will exceed 30°C. By Sunday, the heat will move inland and toward the northeast, with many locations reaching between 30°C and 35°C. The state meteorological agency AEMET has confirmed that temperatures will continue to climb through midweek.
Seville forecast to hit 42°C as heat peaks on Thursday
The most extreme conditions are forecast for Thursday, 29 May, when the heatwave is expected to reach its peak. Seville could see temperatures as high as 42°C, while cities such as Córdoba, Badajoz, Jaén, and Albacete are likely to record over 36°C. Other affected areas include Huelva, Granada, Cáceres, Lleida, Toledo, and Ciudad Real.
According to AEMET, the cause of this surge is a strong high-pressure system, commonly known as the Azores anticyclone. Typically associated with stable summer conditions, this weather pattern has arrived several weeks early.
Climate trends point to more frequent early heatwaves
Meteorologists link this early and intense heat to broader climate trends. While once limited to high summer, such events are now appearing earlier in the year and with greater intensity. AEMET has highlighted that temperatures this week could remain 5°C to 10°C above seasonal norms.
Though cooler conditions are expected by early June — particularly in northern regions — the overall trend indicates longer, hotter warm spells starting earlier each year.
Precautions advised amid health concerns
Authorities are urging the public to take steps to protect themselves from the heat. AEMET has issued advice including:
-
Stay hydrated and drink water regularly
-
Avoid direct sun exposure between 12 noon and 6.00 pm
-
Wear light, breathable clothing
-
Apply sunscreen regularly when outdoors
-
Take extra care with vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses
The agency stresses that this is not a typical May warm spell and should be taken seriously.
Contrasting forecast from young Spanish weather enthusiast
Meanwhile, Jorge Rey — a well-known young weather watcher — has predicted a cooler and less stable summer. While he expected warmer conditions to close out May, Rey maintains that true summer weather will not arrive until late August. He has warned of potential storms and cooler spells in June and early July, even in the Canary Islands.
Spain is experiencing a premature wave of intense heat, with southern cities preparing for temperatures close to 42°C. While some relief may come in early June, the current trend supports scientific concerns about increasingly unpredictable and extreme weather patterns in southern Europe.
How to survive the next heatwave in Spain