Spain is experiencing a peak in the heat on Thursday, 3 September 2026, with the state weather agency Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (Aemet) forecasting highs of 42 to 43°C in parts of the south-western interior. The areas most affected are the Depresión del Guadalquivir and the Vegas del Guadiana. Yellow and orange warnings have been issued for numerous provinces. The emergency services agency Protección Civil is warning of health risks and fire hazards.
Meteorologically, a pronounced ridge of high pressure over the Iberian Peninsula and a so-called “domo de calor” are causing temperatures to rise rapidly. This is compounded by an influx of dry, very warm air containing Saharan dust. This combination is pushing temperatures well above those usual for early September. Nights are also staying unusually mild, making it harder to recover.
Aemet and Protección Civil highlight three areas of risk. First, the health risks are increasing for older people, those with chronic illnesses, children and people working outdoors. Recommendations include drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding direct sunlight during the middle of the day, staying in cool places and looking after particularly vulnerable people. Second, the combination of heat, low humidity and prolonged dry conditions is increasing the risk of fires in forests and open countryside; several autonomous communities have expanded their deployment plans for fire services and forestry teams. Third, infrastructure may come under strain, for example from demand for electricity and on local public transport.
Authorities expect different highs across the regions. In Andalusia and Extremadura temperatures of 42 to 43°C are possible, while parts of Castilla-La Mancha and the Meseta could see around or above 40°C. A sharp rise is expected in the north, locally by as much as eight degrees in 24 hours, although highs there are expected to be lower. Cities and municipalities are preparing additional health warnings and cooling facilities.
The situation is still evolving. On current forecasts, the peak is likely to come between Thursday and Friday; the heat may then shift to other areas or gradually ease. Aemet is continually updating its forecasts and warning levels. Authorities are urging the public to follow official advice and take local alerts seriously.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).