Hot weather conditions are likely to hit several popular islands in Spain as authorities issue warnings for tourists. The temperature levels might soar to 42C in some parts of the continent on Saturday, weather maps have suggested.
A pre-alert for high temperatures for islands such as Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria has been issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies.
The warning comes into effect from 7am on Saturday (August 10) with highs in excess of 36C expected in some areas.
This alert follows forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources, in accordance with the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA) as outlined in Decree 18/2014, March 20.
According to the authorities, temperatures are expected to rise significantly in areas above 800 metres of altitude in Tenerife, La Gomera, and El Hierro.
At La Palma, mercury levels will soar in areas above 1,000 metres, except for the northern and northeastern regions of the island where the threshold is set at 1,400 metres.
The island’s northern half will be affected above 800 metres, while the southern half will experience high temperatures above 400 metres, authorities have suggested.
Maximum temperatures at Tenerife and the western Islands (La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Palma are expected to reach or exceed 30–32C in the midland areas, and 34–36C at higher altitudes and mountain peaks.
In the mainland, Saturday will be the peak of the hot weather and it is likely to exceed 39-40C in the valleys of the Ebro, Duero, Tajo, Guadiana and Guadalquivir rivers, as well as in parts of the Minho, central Spain, the west of the southern plateau and the Genil basin.
A cooler Atlantic mass will begin to enter the western third of the peninsula, on Sunday, although temperatures will remain unchanged or even rise in much of the territory, especially in the Cantabrian Sea, experts have said.
Spain’s national forecaster said temperatures will continue to rise in the coming days until reaching “dangerous values,” triggering orange heat warnings in some places.
The General Directorate of Emergencies advises the public to follow self-protection guidelines to mitigate the effects of the extreme heat.
Tourists have been advised to stay hydrated and avoid excessive physical exertion during peak heat hours. They have been suggested to wear light, breathable clothing and use sun protection.
The authorities added that both residents and holidaymakers are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for the anticipated heatwave.