Over the past quarter-century, Spain has faced 90 extensive periods of high temperatures, commonly known as heatwaves, and these events are growing in duration and frequency as a result of global warming.

In the summer of 2015, Spain experienced the second most significant heatwave on record, lasting 26 days and reaching a scorching high of 37.6°C in the Peninsula and Balearic Islands. This extended period of extreme heat was a stark reminder of the changing climate.

Fast forward to the present day, and heatwaves are becoming increasingly common, affecting more provinces each year. According to AEMET, Spain has witnessed 90 heatwaves in the 21st century, a significant increase from the number between 1975 and 1999.

José Ángel Núñez, a prominent meteorologist, predicts a decrease in cool days during the summer months, with temperatures far from the records of the last century. For instance, the average temperature at the end of July 2011 was 1.5°C lower than the reference average.

Núñez also highlighted that the frequency of heatwaves has increased significantly, with 90 so far this century, more than double compared to the number between 1975 and 1999.

The historical record for consecutive days of a heatwave in Spain was set in 2015, but the 2022 heatwave between July 9 and 26 has surpassed this, becoming the most intense, extensive, and longest in Spain's history. This heatwave affected 44 provinces and lasted 18 consecutive days.

The maximum temperature of the 2022 heatwave reached 38.1°C, with temperatures above 40°C in the center and south of the peninsula, Ebro valley, and much of Castile and León, Galicia, reaching 45°C in certain stations.

Experts warn that if the consequences of climate change are not mitigated, heatwaves will no longer be isolated phenomena. Instead, these and other extreme phenomena will be the general trend not just in Spain, but across Europe and the rest of the planet.

The Mediterranean region of Spain, particularly areas like southern Spain, has become a climate hotspot in the 21st century. This region has warmed about 1.4 °C above pre-industrial levels, approximately 0.5 °C more than the global average, leading to increased heatwaves and droughts.

Moreover, heatwaves are occurring in provinces and meteorological stations that did not have them before or were very rare. Between 2000 and 2024, there were 474 extreme heat days in Spain, compared to 212 between 1975 and 1999, resulting in an increase of over 50%.

AEMET spokesman José Ángel Núñez stated that the number of heatwave days has shown a clear and statistically significant increase. As the climate continues to change, it's crucial to adapt and prepare for these extreme weather events to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all.

Over the past quarter-century, Spain has faced 90 extensive periods of high temperatures, commonly known as heatwaves, and these events are growing in duration and frequency as a result of global warming.