Spanish health authorities have issued a warning to anybody in the country as sweltering temperatures get set to rise. Southern Europe is in the grip of an extreme heatwave which has seen temperatures exceed 40C in large parts.
In Spain’s southern region of Andalusia, the mercury has soared past 45C, setting a new record for the area according to the Spanish state weather agency. So extreme are the temperatures, that a woman in her fifties died whilst working outside as a street cleaner in Barcelona over the weekend, according to reports. The UK Foreign Office has issued no specific advice regarding travel to the country, but Spanish authorities have urged caution.
In particular, they have advised people to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day, from 11am to 3pm, and to stay hydrated.
They have also warned that it is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children to follow the advice.
A band of hot air moving north from Africa has been held responsible for the temperatures which locals believe are extreme even for a warm month such as July.
The country’s national weather agency AEMET has warned that the temperatures are likely to rise above 40C over the weekend and into next week.
Across Spain, holidaymakers have been seen soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach while locals have been spotted cooling in fountains and clambering to find shade for brief respite.
The NHS warns that during heatwaves, such as that being experienced across the south of Europe, more people than usual get seriously ill or die.
The service offers a range of advice to people likely to be exposed to warmer temperatures whether it be in the UK, Spain or anywhere else.
They said: “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.”