Holidaymakers who are currently in or heading to Benidorm have been issued with an urgent warning. The UK summer holidays are in full swing with millions of families making the most of the August break by flying overseas.
Benidorm remains among the most sought-after destinations for British tourists, with thousands flocking to Alicante annually.
Whilst Spain’s warmer climate draws visitors to holiday there, the nation has been gripped by scorching temperatures amid an ongoing heatwave.
Alicante stands amongst the primary regions affected, with Spain’s national weather agency AEMET issuing a red alert for travellers today, reports the Liverpool Echo.
A translation of the warning stated: “RED WARNINGS. Very high maximum temperatures on Monday 18 in the following areas. Southern Alicante coast: 42C or more.
“Vega del Segura (Murcia): 44C or more. Although temperatures will drop in the Peninsula, the heat will still be very intense in the southeast.”
The Met Office anticipates temperatures reaching up to 40C in Benidorm today. Nevertheless, the “feels like temperature” is predicted to hit 49C at 3pm and 4pm for the Spanish resort.
Wildfires have torn across Spain following the extreme heat. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez deployed 500 troops yesterday to help combat the blazes.
The decision to add to the more than 1,400 troops already on wildfire duty came as authorities struggled to contain forest blazes, especially in the north-western Galicia region, and awaited the arrival of promised aircraft reinforcements from other European countries.
Firefighters were confronting 12 significant wildfires across Galicia, all situated close to the city of Ourense, according to the Galician regional government. Officials stated: “Homes are still under threat so we have lockdowns in place and are carrying out evacuations.”
Those journeying to Spain ought to remain alert to the health dangers presented by exposure to scorching temperatures. The NHS has issued guidance on managing extreme heat conditions.
Health bosses warned: “The main risks posed by a heatwave are: Not drinking enough water (dehydration), overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing, and heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”
Medical experts added: “Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
“Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
“Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees.
“Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.”
