The State Meteorological Agency, Aemet, issued a second special warning on Tuesday, 28 July, regarding the heatwave that will affect the Canary Islands and large parts of the Iberian Peninsula over the coming days. The updated warning confirms that the risk period will officially begin on Wednesday, 29 July, and will remain in force until at least Sunday, 2 August. However, Aemet warns that there is a high probability that the episode could continue into the following week.
According to the agency, the heatwave will bring very high maximum temperatures to the archipelago, with values that could reach or even exceed 40°C on the southern slopes of some islands.
The episode will be driven by a mass of warm air, accompanied by a gradual descent of the moisture layer. This situation will favour the arrival of calima above that layer, especially at mid and high altitudes.The combination of high temperatures, suspended dust, southerly winds and very low humidity will also push the forest fire risk to extreme levels across the Canary Islands.
Areas most affected by the heatwave
Aemet’s temperature forecast shows a gradual but significant rise in temperatures across the islands over the coming days, with Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Tenerife among the areas expected to be most affected.
On Wednesday, 29 July, the heatwave will begin with a marked rise in temperatures in the mid-altitude areas of La Palma, Tenerife and Gran Canaria. In the valleys of Gran Canaria, temperatures are expected to exceed 36°C from the first day of the episode.
On Thursday, 30 July, the rise in temperatures will become more widespread across the archipelago. In the mid-altitude areas and peaks of southern Gran Canaria, temperatures are expected to exceed 36°C to 38°C. In southern Tenerife and the interior of Fuerteventura, values will rise above 35°C.
On Friday, 31 July, high temperatures will persist, with maximums between 37°C and 38°C in Gran Canaria and inland areas of Fuerteventura. In the mid-altitude areas on the southern slopes of Gran Canaria, isolated peaks of 39°C to 40°C cannot be ruled out.
During the weekend, on Saturday, 1 August, and Sunday, 2 August, the forecast becomes more uncertain, but current models suggest that the extreme heat will continue. Temperatures may once again exceed 37°C to 38°C in inland Fuerteventura and on the southern slopes of Gran Canaria.
Calima and stiflingly hot nights
The high daytime temperatures will be accompanied by a lack of significant cooling during the night and early morning hours. Aemet warns that nights will be very warm across large parts of the archipelago, with minimum temperatures not falling below 25°C in mountain areas and mid-altitude zones.
This means that many areas may experience tropical or even stifling nights, especially in places exposed to the warm air mass and away from the moderating influence of the trade winds.
The presence of calima at higher altitudes, together with increased atmospheric stability, may also reduce air quality in mid-altitude and mountainous areas. The atmosphere could become hazy, dry and uncomfortable, particularly in areas where suspended dust accumulates.
Extreme wildfire risk across the archipelago
Aemet has also warned that the wildfire risk will reach extreme levels across the Canary Islands during this heatwave. The most concerning factors will be the combination of very high temperatures, low relative humidity, calima and southerly winds. These conditions can dry out vegetation quickly and make any fire more difficult to control.
The situation will be especially sensitive in forested areas, mid-altitude zones and southern slopes, where the heat is expected to be more intense and humidity levels particularly low.
Authorities advise following official updates
Aemet updates its forecast bulletins daily and recommends that the public follow information issued through official emergency and civil protection channels. The authorities are expected to maintain close monitoring of the situation throughout the week, especially in the areas most exposed to the heat, calima and fire risk.
The public is advised to take precautions during outdoor activities, avoid unnecessary exposure during the hottest hours of the day, stay hydrated and pay particular attention to vulnerable groups, including older people, children, people with chronic illnesses and those who work outdoors.
With temperatures potentially exceeding 40°C, very warm nights, calima and an extreme wildfire risk, this heatwave is set to become one of the most significant weather episodes affecting the Canary Islands this week.
