Spain is bracing for another intense heatwave beginning Tuesday, with the national meteorological agency, Aemet, issuing orange weather alerts across large parts of the country. Forecasts indicate temperatures will exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several popular tourist destinations, driven by stagnant air masses and heat arriving from North Africa.
Rising Temperatures Across Spanish Tourist Hotspots
The heatwave is expected to impact central regions of the Spanish mainland most severely, alongside the Balearic Islands, which include major travel hubs like Mallorca and Ibiza. According to the Norwegian weather service Yr, temperatures on Mallorca are projected to hit 37 degrees Celsius daily through Saturday.
In the southeastern parts of the country, conditions will be even more extreme. Forecasters anticipate temperatures reaching between 42 and 44 degrees Celsius. Low-lying areas, such as the Valle del Guadalhorce near Malaga, are particularly vulnerable to these spikes due to trapped heat in the valley geography.
Did you know?
Spain experienced a record-breaking June in terms of heat, with the national average temperature for a 24-hour period exceeding 28 degrees Celsius.
Assessing the Risk to Travelers and Infrastructure
The combination of high temperatures and stagnant air has led meteorologists to warn of an elevated risk of forest fires, particularly across the Balearic Islands. For the 1.4 million Norwegians who traveled to Spain in 2025—making it the second most popular destination for Norwegian tourists after Sweden, according to Statistics Norway (SSB)—these conditions necessitate careful planning.
Travelers are advised to monitor local Aemet alerts closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are these heatwaves becoming more frequent in Spain?
Meteorologists attribute the current heatwave to stagnant air patterns combined with warm air currents moving north from the African continent.
Which areas of Spain are most affected by the heat?
Central mainland areas and the Balearic Islands are currently under orange alerts. The most extreme temperatures are expected in the southeast, specifically in valleys such as the Valle del Guadalhorce.
Is it safe to travel to Spain during an orange heat alert?
While travel is possible, tourists should exercise caution, stay hydrated, and follow the guidance provided by local authorities and their respective national meteorological services.
Have you recently traveled to Spain during a heatwave? Share your experiences and tips for staying cool in the comments below. For more updates on European travel weather trends, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.