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Spain Scorched: 47C Heatwave Sparks Extreme Wildfire Danger
22 Jul
Summary
- Spain braces for third heatwave, with temperatures potentially reaching 47C.
- Extreme wildfire risks loom as heat dome intensifies across the country.
- Over 1,000 people have already died from heat-related illnesses this summer.
Spain is preparing for its third major heatwave of the summer, with meteorological agencies forecasting temperatures to reach as high as 47C. This intense heat, driven by a 'heat dome' drawing air north from Africa, is creating extreme wildfire risks throughout the country.
The heatwave is expected to last all week, approaching Spain's all-time record temperature of 47.6C set in 2021. The southeastern interior is anticipated to be the most severely affected, with popular tourist spots like Malaga potentially reaching 45C.
This extreme heat follows a devastating wildfire season. In 2026 alone, over 104,423 hectares have burned in Spain, making it the most fire-affected EU country. Last summer saw even higher numbers, with 354,747 hectares burned.
Health officials have reported nearly 1,300 heat-related emergencies. Tragically, at least 1,028 people died from heat-related causes during the June heatwave alone, with another heatwave occurring earlier this month.
