Heatwave grips Spain with temperatures near 40°C and storms expected

Spain is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures reaching 38°C in the Guadalquivir and Guadiana valleys, with alerts in Galicia, Andalusia, and Extremadura Source: infobae. The AEMET warns of "pleno verano" heat, with highs up to 40°C possible in Badajoz and the Guadalquivir Source: elconfidencial. Galicia has activated a red alert for extreme heat in Pontevedra Source: abces.

The change

After the heat, a DANA will bring storms from Sunday, particularly in the northwest and interior Source: abces, lavanguardia. The AEMET predicts a shift from anticyclonic stability to instability, with thunderstorms and possible hail Source: infobae. Roberto Brasero notes that "después del calor vendrán las tormentas" Source: elconfidencial.

Broader climate context

This heatwave is part of a global trend: May 2026 was the second hottest on record Source: hoydo. The OMS reported over 200,000 heat-related deaths in Europe in four years Source: diariolibree. Germany has responded by prioritizing household water supply over industry Source: elespanol. Digital twins are being used to design heat-resilient cities Source: elespanol. The UN projects a 75% chance that global temperatures will exceed 1.5°C above preindustrial levels within five years Source: latimes.