Keeping Cool During Spain's Sizzling Summer
Spain forecasts blistering temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius this week, sparking questions about climate change's role.
With the temperature soaring after a record-breaking May, here's a guide on staying safe as Spain gears up for a heated summer.
Spain is bracing itself for warmer-than-average summer temperatures, following the scorching May that saw mercury peaks of 40.7°C in Córdoba and Seville, and 37.5°C in Zaragoza1. The average May temperature was a sweltering 24.08°C, marking the highest May reading since records began in 19501. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that human-induced greenhouse gas emissions have led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of temperature extremes1.
Last year, Spain's Ministry of Health released a new map with more detailed heat alerts, breaking the country down into 182 meteosalud (or metro health) zones. Each zone offers a color-based warning system, ranging from Green or no risk to Red or high risk to health and life2. Spain's annual heat plan also has a guide advising various administrations, health professionals, and citizens on handling intense heat2.
Andalusia, Extremadura, Castilla-La Mancha, Madrid, Catalonia, Murcia, and the Mediterranean Coast, Balearic Islands, and Canary Islands are the regions expected to experience especially harsh heatwaves2. Here is how to stay safe during Spain's sizzling summer:
1. Know the Signs and Symptoms
Recognize the early symptoms of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Keep an eye out for heat-related symptoms in vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, low-income workers, the elderly, and children2.
2. Rely on Trusted Early Warning Systems
Download the AEMET app or visit their website for real-time, science-based heat alerts by region, severity, and duration2.
3. Protect Yourself & Your Home
In hot weather, even healthy individuals can suffer from heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Stay hydrated, rest in the shade or cool indoor spaces, and schedule strenuous activities for early morning. Protect your home by closing blinds and shutters during the day, using fans or creating cross-ventilation in the evenings, and checking on neighbors, especially those who live alone2.
4. Be Aware of Nighttime Heat
When nighttime temperatures remain above 25°C, the body has difficulty recovering from the day's heat. Use cool showers, damp sheets, or ice packs before bed, create a communal "cool room" with fans or AC if electricity is limited, and let employers and schools know that heat also affects performance and health during nighttime2.
Climate Resilience for All (CRA), a women-led climate adaptation NGO, shares additional tips for coping with extreme heat. For further resources and information on regional heat alerts in Spain, visit AEMET's website.
- In an effort to combat the effects of climate change and ensure public health and wellness, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) advocates for the implementation of environmental-science-based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate resilience.
- To further support public health and wellness, various therapies-and-treatments can be used to alleviate the symptoms of heat-related illness. It is crucial to stay informed about trusted resources, such as the AEMET app, which provides science-based heat alerts, to ensure a safe and healthy summer during periods of extreme heat.
