AN URGENT warning has been issued to Irish tourists over thunderstorms and scorching heatwaves sweeping across Europe.
Irish holiday hotspots in Spain and Portugal have been placed under an urgent weather alert ahead of the thunderstorms that are expected to brew today.
Spain and Portugal are at risk of thunderstorms[/caption]
Alan O’Reilly from Carlow Weather revealed that most European countries are still suffering scorching heat, as Ireland and the United Kingdom miss out on it.
Yesterday, the majority of Italy reached a whopping 31C, while Portugal saw temperatures hit 33C and Spain experienced 37C highs.
O’Reilly said: “The extreme heat in Northern France has eased off and will further over the coming days.
“Still hot in parts of Spain and Portugal and some thunderstorms expected in Spain, especially Northern areas today.
“Ireland missing out on the heat.”
The thunderstorm radar map reveals that Northern Spain, including Vigo, Oviedo, Santander and Madrid, is expected to experience thunderstorms today.
The thunderstorms are expected to last for two days, with Saturday highlighted as the peak for thunder activity.
On Saturday, the thunderstorm from Spain will slowly spread across Northern Portugal, affecting Porto, Braga and Braganca.
Thunderstorms may bring heavy rain and even hail to some areas.
This means that Irish jetsetters hoping to escape to the sun might find themselves disappointed.
No official weather warning has been issued by Spain or Portugal’s meteorological agency, but it is expected that they will issue it in a short period.
Holidaymakers are advised to take caution in severe weather, especially with the extreme heat, and follow the authority guidelines.
HEATWAVE WARNINGS
However, the warnings for Spain over the major heatwave remain in effect for some parts as the heatwave, which originated from the African continent, continues to have a grip on Spain’s climate.
Spain’s State Meteorological Agency, AEMET, has warnings in place for Palma, Cordoba, Sevilla, Leon and Madrid over the extreme heat until July 6, with some parts still reaching up to 39C.
Spanish health officials have urged tourists and locals to take extra care in the heat, stay outside of the sun and stay hydrated.
They also encouraged people to pay close attention to those who are older, pregnant or who have chronic health conditions.
Portugal urged people to stay in cool or air-conditioned environments for at least two to three hours a day and avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially during midday when it’s at its peak.
Using sunscreen with a factor of 30 or higher is recommended.
Ensure to reapply it every two hours and after swimming at the beach or pool.
