Bizkaia is currently enduring an exceptional heatwave for this time of year, with temperatures surpassing historical records for May in several of its municipalities. The weather forecasts indicate that this warm spell, more typical of summer, will persist in the coming days.
According to Euskalmet data, this Friday saw record-breaking May temperatures across the Basque Country. The Biscayan municipality of Sopuerta registered 39.1 degrees Celsius, the highest value recorded in May since official measurements began. Very high maximums were also recorded in other parts of Bizkaia, such as Güeñes-Sodupe (38.5 degrees), Muxika (36.7), Mungia (36.3), and the Bilbao neighborhood of Zorrotza, where thermometers reached 36.4 degrees.
This heat episode particularly affects the interior of Bizkaia and its western valleys, where southerly winds have driven temperatures well above the usual average for late May. The contrast has been particularly striking after several weeks marked by rain and cool temperatures.
Meteorological forecasts indicate that the heat will not dissipate in the short term. Euskalmet maintains high temperature advisories and predicts sunny days with maximums continuing to hover around 30 to 35 degrees in numerous parts of the territory over the next few days.
Although some northeasterly wind entered the coast over the weekend, slightly moderating the atmosphere along the coastline, the interior will continue to register high values for this time of year. Experts warn that these extreme episodes are becoming increasingly frequent and earlier, consolidating a trend of rising temperatures observed since 2022.
The high temperatures have also begun to impact daily life. Bizkaia's beaches have seen a large influx of people, and health services have already attended to several heat-related cases. Furthermore, the risk of forest fires remains elevated due to the combination of heat, low humidity, and southerly winds.
When temperatures are very high, it is advisable to avoid certain foods that can increase the sensation of heat, hinder digestion, or promote dehydration. Generally, it is recommended to reduce the consumption of very fatty or fried foods, such as hamburgers, cured meats, or fried items, as they are heavier and cause the body to generate more heat during digestion. It is also better to limit very spicy dishes, as they can increase sweating and the feeling of stuffiness.
Alcohol is not recommended on hot days, as it contributes to dehydration. Similarly, beverages with high caffeine or sugar content, such as soft drinks, energy drinks, or excessive coffee, may not be the most suitable for maintaining good hydration. It is also advisable to avoid very salty foods, like snacks, fast food, or preserved items, as they increase thirst and can affect the body's fluid balance. On the other hand, heavy sauces and ultra-processed foods are usually less digestible in summer.
Additionally, caution is needed with foods that spoil easily in the heat, such as meats, fish, seafood, eggs, or cooked dishes that do not keep well, as this increases the risk of food poisoning. Instead, it is preferable to opt for light, fresh meals with high water content, such as fruits, vegetables, salads, or cold dishes like gazpacho.
