IRISH tourists have been warned to “be prepared” for adverse weather in Spain as severe heat and thunderstorm warnings are issued across six holiday destinations.
Relief from extreme heat reached areas of Europe over the weekend as the region cooled off after record-breaking 46.6C temperatures.
Multiple areas of Spain have been placed under weather warnings[/caption]
At least eight people died across Europe – four people in Spain, two in France, and two in Italy – as a result of the summer heatwave.
And although the extreme heat has been lifting over the last number of days, Irish tourists heading over to Spain on holidays have been warned temperatures are still extremely hot.
There is a severe thunderstorm warning in place for Gúdar and Maestrazgo, located northeast of Valencia, until 9pm tonight.
AEMET, Spain’s national weather forecaster, said: “Be prepared. Take precautions and keep up to date with the latest weather forecast.
“Severe damages to people and properties may occur, especially to those vulnerable or in exposed areas.”
Ourense in northwestern Spain has also been placed under a severe Status Orange alert, but those in the area have been warned of high temperatures.
AEMET warned temperatures could max out at a sweltering 39C.
Another high temperature warning has been issued for those in Madrid, with weather boffins warning 36C heat could blast the area.
Those holidaying on the south coast of Tarragona have been placed under a rain alert, being warned of the risk of 20 mm of rain in just one hour.
In Toledo, temperatures may hit 38C, with tourists being warned to stay outside during the hottest parts of the day, hydrate, use sunscreen and seek shade.
Looking at forecast for today, AEMET said: “Heavy to very heavy showers are expected along the coasts of Tarragona and the Valencian Community in the early morning.
“Thunderstorms and possible heavy showers are expected in the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula and the northern Valencian Community in the afternoon, with possible showers in the eastern Central System and Soria.
“Significantly high maximum temperatures are expected, exceeding 34C-36C in large areas of the southern half and even inland areas of Galicia, the northern plateau, and the Ebro River.”
In Portugal, tourists in the Bragança and Vila Real areas of the country have been warned of a high temperature alert.
Temperatures are expected to reach 38C.
‘AFFECT TRAVEL PLANS’
Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs warned tourists to keep up to date with the weather forecast.
It said: “Spain can at times experience extreme weather conditions, including flooding, which can adversely affect travel plans.
“You can monitor information and alerts, including severe weather warnings, on the website of the Spanish Meteorological Agency, AEMET.
“Citizens are advised to check the latest weather information before they travel and to follow the advice of the local authorities.”
Spain’s weather warnings come as Ireland braces to be hit with searing 30C temperatures and widespread sunshine this week.
BEAT THE HEAT
MANY people enjoy the warm weather and look forward to sunshine and high temperatures heating up the country each summer.
But heatwaves can cause heat exhaustion, sunburn and heatstroke.
The HSE advises prioritising hydration, seeking shade or cooler indoor spaces, wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and making use of cool showers and baths to beat the heat.
When inside you should:
- Turn off lights and appliances not in use as they generate heat
- Close windows that face the sun during the day, and open them at night when the temperature drops
- Close curtains in rooms that get morning or afternoon sun
- Sprinkle water on your skin, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck
- Use an electric fan
When outside you should:
- Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day
- Wear light and loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin
- Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Regularly apply a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen
- Stay in the shade
Met Eireann could issue their own weather warnings for the country as the weather heats up and there is the possibility that temperatures may break records.
A Status Yellow high temperatures warning is issued if temperatures over a wide area exceed 27C at their max and 15C at their minimum.
A Status Orange “threat to life” high temperature warning is issued if maximum temperatures are in excess of 30C for three consecutive days and a minimum of 20C for consecutive nights.
Meteorologist Cathal Nolan from Ireland’s Weather Channel warned that temperatures could hit 30C in some counties on Saturday and Sunday.
He said: “Highs of between 25-27C are likely on Friday, with values reaching up to 28-30C on Saturday, with an outside chance that values could even top out at 31C on Sunday.”
