Latest news with #AEMET
The Star
3 days ago
- Climate
- The Star
Spanish expert urges protection for elderly after 1,180 heat-related deaths in two months
Barcelona, Spain, July 18 (Xinhua) -- Extreme heat has a serious impact on health, especially for older people, a professor of Physical Geography at the University of Barcelona said in an interview with Xinhua on Friday, calling for more social support. "The main threat is that excessive and extreme heat kills. It has a serious impact on health, especially for older people - many of whom live alone and suffer from chronic illnesses," warned Javier Martin-Vide. His remarks come amid a troubling surge in heat-related deaths across Spain. According to the Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, 1,180 people died from high temperatures between May 16 and July 13 - a staggering 1,300 percent increase compared to the same period last year, when 114 deaths were recorded. Martin-Vide emphasized that many elderly Spaniards live alone in poorly insulated dwellings without air conditioning, calling for urgent measures, including regular visits by social and healthcare workers to ensure seniors stay hydrated and live in safe conditions during heatwaves. Government data reinforces his concerns. The ministry reported that 95 percent of the victims were over the age of 65, and 59.2 percent were women. The intensity and duration of this summer's heat have been unprecedented. In the first week of July, heat-related deaths rose by 47 percent compared to the entire month of June. Temperatures in parts of Spain reached as high as 40 degrees Celsius, triggering 76 red alerts for extreme heat - a dramatic rise from zero during the same period in 2024. The regions most affected were in northern Spain, particularly Galicia, La Rioja, Asturias, and Cantabria. Spain's meteorological office, AEMET, registered an average national temperature of 23.6 degrees Celsius in June, 0.8 percent higher than the previous historical maximum set in 2017. It forecasts that July will continue the extreme heat trend, with a 70 percent probability that the average monthly temperature will exceed historical norms. Martin-Vide agreed with AEMET's forecast, noting that "the current temperatures resemble those of the hottest years in August, not (what's typically expected for) June or July."
Local Spain
4 days ago
- Climate
- Local Spain
Giant cloud of forest fire smoke smothers Madrid
The uncontrolled fire in the municipality of Méntrida, around 50 kilometres (31 miles) southwest of the capital, prompted local authorities to urge nearby residents to stay at home and shut their windows. The wind blew the smoke over Madrid, where AFP journalists saw ash falling from a thick cloud of orange and grey-coloured smoke, with observers gathering in the street to take pictures. Madrid's civil protection service advised people to avoid staying outdoors and to use surgical face masks to avoid inhaling the ash, while part of a main motorway leading to the city was closed. More than 150 firefighters were deployed on the ground and in the air to extinguish the fire that began at around 3:00 pm (1300 GMT), according to the forest fire information service of the central Castilla-La Mancha region. Scientists say human-induced climate change is increasing the intensity, length and frequency of the extreme heat that fuels forest fires. Several regions of Spain have been under heat warnings this week, with temperatures peaking at 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit) in Méntrida on Thursday, according to national weather agency AEMET. According to the European Forest Fire Information System, around 500 fires destroyed 300,000 hectares (741,300 acres) of vegetation in Spain in 2022, a record for the continent. More than 25,000 hectares have burned so far this year.
Time Out
5 days ago
- Climate
- Time Out
Is it safe to travel to Spain? Latest advice after floods and an earthquake hit holiday hotspots
A severe storm hit half of Spain over the weekend, causing catastrophic rainfall, severe winds and floods. Two people have been reported missing in Catalonia and a hospital was evacuated just southwest of Barcelona. And on Monday, just hours after the torrential downpour, a 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck southern Spain, causing damage in popular holiday hotspots Costa del Sol and Almería. Understandably, those with holidays booked might be worried about whether it's safe to travel. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Spain right now, and whether you are entitled to a refund if you cancel your trip. Where is the flooding in Spain? Severe storm warnings were announced by the Spanish weather agency, AEMET, across Huesca, Teruel, Zaragoza, Navarra and Castellón, along with Catalonian cities Barcelona, Girona, Lleida and Tarragona. Barcelona was drastically affected with 155mm of rainfall on Saturday, leading to the evacuation of 71 patients at Penedès Regional Hospital, just southwest of the city. Navarra was also affected with 97mm of rain. Where did the earthquake hit in Spain? Hours after the severe floods, Spain's National Geographic Institute (IGN) recorded the 5.4 earthquake early Monday morning on the Almería coast in southern Spain. The quake was felt in hundreds of towns and villages. Granada, Malaga, Jaen, Murcia, Alicante, Costa del Sol and Albacete in the east were hit the hardest, but tremors were also felt in Levante and Cabo de Gata, the largest protected coastal area in Andalusia. An airport roof collapsed in Almería, but luckily, there were no injuries. Is it safe to travel? Though weather warnings have been lifted and the storms have eased, many regions are still dealing with the damage caused by the flooding. There have been no international warnings that mention it's unsafe to travel to Spain, so while it's safe to travel, it's best to check the status of the area you plan to visit. Spain's State Meteorological Agency now warns of severe high temperatures across the country, especially inland areas like Madrid, Cordoba and Merida. What's the latest advice from the FCDO? As of now, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has not advised against travel to Spain, but it's always best to stay prepared by keeping track of local news and weather services in the areas you plan to visit. Can I get a refund if I cancel my trip? As there has been no official warning against travel to Spain, you won't automatically be entitled to a refund if you change your travel plans. If in doubt, it's best to contact your airline and travel providers to see what can be done. Extreme weather across Europe This summer, several European destinations have been impacted by extreme weather. Destinations including Spain, Croatia and Italy experienced severe heatwaves at the start of the month, while thousands of people were evacuated from İzmir in Türkiye thanks to wildfires.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Climate
- Daily Record
Spain heatwave alert for Scottish tourists amid scorching 40C warning
One tourist hotspot is set to reach sweltering temperatures as officials have warned of a risk to safety Seville, a gem amongst Spanish cities and a favourite with British holidaymakers, is bracing itself for more than the usual sun-soaked days as experts have issued stark warnings of a dangerous heatwave. Rising temperatures have raised red flags among weather specialists, with some saying that Seville is "becoming a desert". It's even been dubbed the "Iberian oven" in light of its scorching heat. Now, Spain 's State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has sounded the alarm by issuing an orange alert for 'extreme high temperature', as reported by AccuWeather. This alert was active for Tuesday, July 15, and continues through today, Wednesday, July 16. The advisory covers the hours from 1pm to 9pm, just like the previous day. AEMET has warned tourists and locals about potential 'severe damage' to property and significant risks to personal safety, reports the Express. In response to the sweltering conditions, AEMET advises: "Be prepared. Take precautions and keep up to date with the latest weather forecast. "Severe damage to people and properties may occur, especially to those vulnerable or in exposed areas." Mercury levels could soar to 40C, with the most brutal heat anticipated between 4pm and 6pm. The city, celebrated for its breathtaking architecture, buzzing nightlife, and typically splendid climate, enjoys around 12 hours of sunshine a day, making it a perfect spot for a getaway at any time of year. Yet, the intense summer heatwaves have become a growing concern, often pushing temperatures to levels that many find oppressive. Nestled at the foot of several mountains, the city catches scorching African winds sweeping across the flatlands, leading meteorologists to caution "we're" walking into unknown territory... the city is turning into a desert". Peak sweltering conditions usually arrive in late July and early August - though this hinges completely on atmospheric flows. Tourists must be made aware of the punishing conditions and risks including heat exhaustion and severe fluid loss. During August 2023, the thermometer hit 40C and remained in the upper 30s throughout the summer period. Travel expert Huw Owen recommends visitors plan their trips for spring and autumn when conditions are more temperate and agreeable. If you opt for a summer break, it's wise to take cover between 12-7pm and enjoy the more bearable evening hours. There's an abundance of attractions and experiences that let you escape the blistering sunshine, including exploring the magnificent Cathedral and the stunning Alcazar Royal Palace. What to do in a heatwave abroad The British Red Cross has helpful advice for Scottish holidaymakers flying abroad during high heat this summer. Dr Ellie Murtagh from recommends: "If you are travelling to a country experiencing extreme heat, there are several steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe. "This includes wearing sunscreen, staying out of the sun during the warmest hours of the day, drinking plenty of water and drinking less alcohol. You can also help keep wherever you're staying cool by keeping blinds and windows closed." Extreme heat presents a considerable threat to those who are especially susceptible. Additional measures should be taken if you are elderly, expecting, or have chronic health conditions.
Rhyl Journal
6 days ago
- Climate
- Rhyl Journal
Brits going to Spain this month issued heatwave alert
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued severe weather alerts across key holiday hotspots, including Andalusia, Murcia, and the Balearic Islands. These warnings include red and orange alerts for heat, as well as one for the Saharan dust haze in parts of eastern Spain and the islands. The severe weather alerts are affecting key holiday hotspots, including Andalusia, Murcia, and the Balearic Islands. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Jessie Chambers, a travel specialist at Global Work and Travel, has shared essential tips on the things you should not do during the Spanish heatwave flagged by the AEMET. The expert warns UK travellers coming to Spain that a sudden temperature drop can "shock your system". She has, instead, recommended cooling down gradually, using lukewarm water and cooling cloths. While they can be a useful tool, fans can also circulate hot air once the room temperature exceeds 35C. These should be combined with cold water bottles, mist sprays, or damp sheets for better results. Digesting heavy foods can sometimes raise your body temperature. Travellers should try eating light, water-rich snacks like fruit, salad and yoghurt. Plastic bottles may leach chemicals in extreme heat, and devices left on sun loungers can overheat quickly or become damaged. Surfaces can reach "scorching" temperatures and cause burns. The expert has called on Brits to always wear sandals or flip-flops, even for short distances. Should you open or close your windows during a heatwave? Expert settles debate What are Met Office and UKHSA cold-health and heat-health alerts? Foreign Office reveals all the countries UK holidaymakers should avoid Sleeping in extreme heat can increase your risk of heat exhaustion. If your room doesn't have AC, take your nap in the morning, not the afternoon, Jessie Chambers has advised. Evenings can still hover above 30C, especially inland. To combat this, she had told tourists to avoid long walks after dark unless essential, and to keep water with them at all times.
