The Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands are facing a worrying situation due to the high temperatures that are expected over the next few days. The heat will be extremely intense, especially in some areas of the southern peninsula, where temperatures could reach 44 °C. These figures are alarming and represent a risk to the health of the population, since they expose people to extreme heat conditions. In addition, the nights will not provide relief either: thermometers are not expected to drop below 25 °C, making it difficult to rest and recover from the heat of the day.
Temperatures will begin to rise in the coming days, and on Sunday it is likely that local temperatures will exceed 40 °C in the Guadalquivir valley and in some parts of eastern Andalusia and the southern plateau. In addition, temperatures are expected to reach 36°C in the interior of the Balearic Islands and in the Ebro valley. As of Monday, temperatures are likely to exceed 38°C in general and, locally, 40°C in the southeast quadrant of the Peninsula and in some points of the Ebro valley. In the Guadalquivir valley, it is possible that on Monday it will exceed 42 °C. In addition, it is not ruled out that in the interior areas of the Balearic Islands, temperatures will also exceed 38 °C.
It is probable that the temperatures will remain very high in the coming days and may even increase even more during Tuesday the 11th and Wednesday the 12th, not ruling out that in some areas of the Guadalquivir valley they will reach 44 °C. The minimum temperatures will also be very high during this episode, with tropical nights, with temperatures above 20 °C and even locally above 25 °C in the southeastern half of the Peninsula, especially in the southeastern third, and in Balearics. At present, the end of this episode of very high temperatures cannot be predicted, although it is possible that towards the end of next week there will be a slight decrease in temperatures, but they will remain at very high values.
This episode of intense heat will likely be prolonged, further aggravating the situation. The high temperatures could be maintained for several consecutive days, without giving a break to the affected regions. This poses an additional challenge for people’s health and well-being, as the human body needs periods of rest and cooling down to function optimally. The risk of heat stroke, dehydration and exhaustion is greatly increased in these conditions.
Given this situation, it is essential that the authorities and the population take measures to deal with the high temperatures. Prevention and action protocols should be implemented, such as the recommendation to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours and seek cool or heated places. In addition, it is important to pay special attention to the most vulnerable groups, such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses, as they are more susceptible to complications from extreme heat.
It is essential that the population is informed about the risks associated with high temperatures and the precautions they must take. The authorities must provide up-to-date and clear information, as well as practical recommendations to protect yourself from the heat. Additionally, care centers and shelters can be set up where people can find respite from the heat, especially those who do not have access to air conditioners or cool spaces in their homes.
In short, the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands are facing an episode of high temperatures that is expected to be intense and prolonged. It is vital that both the authorities and the population are prepared and take the necessary measures to protect themselves from extreme heat. Prevention, information and care for the most vulnerable groups must be priorities in this situation, to minimize health risks and guarantee the well-being of all.
