VALENCIA – According to the Spanish meteorological service Aemet, it is the worst heatwave since 1950 to hit Spain this week. Thursday will be the hottest day in the Valencia region, especially along the southern coast and inland of this province with temperatures reaching 47 degrees.
That is why that area and the Vega del Segura in the interior of the province of Alicante will receive a red alert. Temperatures here on Thursday, August 10 could reach 47 degrees in Xàtiva and over 44 degrees in other parts of Valencia, Alicante and Castellón.
Possibly dry thunderstorms
The heatwave that has been causing high temperatures in the rest of Spain for several days is expected to peak in eastern Spain on Thursday. In addition to the intense heat, there is also a chance of dust storms in the morning and a low chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Amber alert
An orange alert has also been issued for the rest of the province of Valencia and the entire province of Alicante, with maximums that could exceed 41 degrees and reach as high as 44 degrees in places. Furthermore, the province of Castellón has received a yellow warning for temperatures that could reach 36 degrees.
Fortunately, people in those areas can look ahead, as a significant drop in temperatures is expected on Friday. That drop could potentially result in a temperature difference of up to 10 degrees compared to the temperatures recorded 24 hours earlier. However, this cooling will still be above average for this time of year.
Stable weather will follow in the coming weekend with more pleasant temperatures due to the easterly wind blowing in the afternoon.
Authorities are advising the population to take precautions, including avoiding being outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, drinking plenty of water and following local government directions.
Prohibited access to natural parks
In response to the extremely high temperatures, authorities have imposed a series of bans and restrictions in forest areas and natural parks in the region. Furthermore, certain activities in forest areas are suspended and the recreational use of fire is prohibited, as well as lighting fires within 500 metres of the forest areas. There is also a circulation ban in various nature parks and forest areas, for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians, except essential purposes such as management, supplies and supervision.
In addition, sporting events that pass through forest areas are prohibited and sports and recreational activities outside designated camping and accommodation areas in forest areas are not permitted. The authorities have indicated that they are prepared to respond quickly and appropriately to any situations that may arise during this period when the risk of forest fires is extremely high.
