A new heatwave has been hitting Spain since Saturday, June 28, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) across much of the country. The episode, described as unusually early by the national weather agency (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología, AEMET), was expected to last at least through Wednesday, July 2, and possibly longer in the center, south and northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Extreme peaks are forecasted, especially in Andalusia, where temperatures could reach 44°C (111°F). In Madrid, Toledo and Zaragoza, highs are expected to hover around 40°C. Along the Mediterranean coast and in the south, nights are forecast to remain oppressively warm, with temperatures not falling below 25°C (77°F).
Health authorities have classified 1,135 municipalities as high health risk zones (14%), 1,673 as medium risk (21%) and 3,267 as low risk (40%). In Seville, set to host the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) from June 30 to July 3, under the aegis of the United Nations, the heatwave is adding additional pressure on local authorities.
In addition to reinforced security measures, health services were placed on alert to respond to potential heat-related emergencies. Around 50 heads of state and government, along with 4,000 participants from civil society and international financial institutions, were expected to attend in the Andalusian capital.
You have 61.48% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.