Madrid, Spain — May 25, 2026 Spain is bracing for a late-May heatwave so intense it feels more like July, with temperatures in several regions expected to soar near 40°C (104°F) and “tropical nights” where temperatures remain above 20°C (68°F). The Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET), Spain’s national meteorological agency, has issued warnings about the unusual weather pattern, which is being driven by unusually warm air masses for this time of year.
The heatwave, which is set to peak between Wednesday and Friday, will affect large swathes of the country, including the Guadalquivir and Guadiana valleys, the Ebro Depression and parts of Catalonia. Cities such as Badajoz, Sevilla, Córdoba, Zaragoza, and Lleida are among those expected to experience the most extreme conditions, with temperatures potentially reaching or exceeding 38°C (100°F). Meanwhile, the northern coast and interior regions will also feel the effects, with temperatures more typical of July rather than late May.
This heatwave is not just about daytime highs—it’s also bringing unusually warm nights. Known as “noches tropicales” (tropical nights), these occur when the temperature does not drop below 20°C (68°F). Such conditions are expected to spread across Extremadura, Andalusia, the Ebro Valley, and parts of the Mediterranean coast, making it difficult for residents to find relief even after the sun sets.
According to AEMET’s latest data, some of the highest temperatures recorded so far this week include:
- Badajoz: 34.0°C at 14:50 (May 25)
- Cazalla de la Sierra (Sevilla): 29.0°C at 18:50 (May 25)
- Cazorla (Jaén): 33.2°C at 16:40 (May 25)
- Cañamero (Cáceres): Data pending
Why Is This Heatwave Unusual?
AEMET has emphasized that the air masses affecting Spain are “warmer than any recorded for this time of year” in the 1991–2020 climatological reference period. This makes the current heatwave an exceptional event for late May, with temperatures significantly above seasonal norms. The agency attributes this to a combination of atmospheric stability and the influence of a mature “dana” (cut-off low), which has brought localized rain and storms to parts of northern Spain but left the rest of the country under a heat dome.
While some regions like Galicia, Asturias, and parts of Castilla y León may see scattered showers and thunderstorms, the majority of Spain will experience clear skies and intense heat. The only relief may come in the form of isolated afternoon thunderstorms in mountainous areas of central and northern Spain, though these are expected to be limited in scope.
Who Is Most Affected?
The heatwave poses particular risks to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Authorities are advising residents to:
- Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between 12:00 and 18:00 (noon and 6 PM).
- Use air conditioning or fans where possible, and seek cooler indoor spaces during peak heat hours.
- Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those without access to air conditioning.
- Follow local advisories from municipal governments and health authorities.
In response to the heatwave, some regions have already activated heatwave alert protocols. For example, Andalusia’s regional government has urged municipalities to open cooling centers and increase monitoring of high-risk groups. Meanwhile, health services are preparing for a potential rise in heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
What’s Next?
While the heatwave is expected to peak between Wednesday and Friday, meteorologists indicate that temperatures may remain elevated through the weekend. Some relief could arrive in the form of late-afternoon thunderstorms in the Pyrenees and Sistema Ibérico, but the overall trend suggests that Spain will end May with a distinctly summer-like atmosphere.
For the latest updates, residents are advised to monitor:
- AEMET’s official website for real-time weather forecasts and alerts.
- Local municipal websites for heatwave advisories and cooling center locations.
- National health authorities, such as the Spanish Ministry of Health, for health and safety recommendations.
Key Takeaways
- Extreme temperatures: Cities like Badajoz, Sevilla, and Córdoba could see temperatures near 40°C (104°F) by midweek.
- Tropical nights: Temperatures in many regions will not drop below 20°C (68°F), making sleep difficult.
- Localized storms: Northern Spain may see scattered rain and thunderstorms, but the rest of the country will remain dry and hot.
- Health risks: Vulnerable groups are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses; cooling centers and hydration are critical.
- Official advisories: AEMET and regional governments are urging caution and preparedness.
As Spain transitions into what feels like early summer, residents and visitors alike are being reminded to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the growing impact of climate change on Europe, with late-spring heatwaves becoming increasingly common.
What are your experiences with Spain’s heatwave? Share your tips for staying cool in the comments below.