The Basque Government has activated a red alert this Monday, June 24th, between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM in the meteorological zones affecting the territory of Álava, due to the forecast of very high temperatures. In Vitoria-Gasteiz, the Llanada Alavesa, and much of central Álava, thermometers could reach 39 degrees Celsius, while in Rioja Alavesa and the south of the territory, the forecast rises to 40 degrees.
The red alert will be active during the central hours of the day, the most challenging period due to the heat, meaning from midday until late afternoon. Furthermore, the Basque Government maintains a yellow alert for persistent high temperatures throughout the entire day (from 00:00 to 24:00 hours). This signifies that the problem will not only be the afternoon heat peak but also high temperatures expected for a significant part of the day, potentially leading to a difficult night in some areas.
Additionally, the warning includes a risk of forest fires throughout Monday. The Basque Government indicates that the risk will be high due to the high temperatures and the southerly wind. The basic recommendation is to exercise extreme caution in forests, agricultural areas, and natural spaces, and to avoid any activity that could cause a fire, refrain from discarding cigarette butts, and not have barbecues outside permitted areas.
During the hottest hours, it is advisable to avoid direct sunlight, drink water frequently, and reduce intense physical activity outdoors. It is also important to pay attention to the elderly, minors, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those who work outdoors or in heat-exposed environments. At home, it is recommended to ventilate early in the morning or at night, close blinds during the hottest hours, and seek cool spaces if the home becomes too warm. In Vitoria-Gasteiz, municipal climate shelters can be an option to spend the toughest hours of the day.
The situation will continue on Tuesday, although the alert level will decrease. According to the forecast, on that day there will be a yellow alert for extreme high temperatures between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM. In the transition zone, where Vitoria-Gasteiz is located, maximums could reach 38 degrees, while in the Ebro axis, the forecast indicates up to 39 degrees.
