Gipuzkoa is facing a severe heatwave today, with maximum temperatures forecast to reach 42 degrees Celsius inland and 36 degrees Celsius on the coast. Nighttime lows are also expected to remain high, exceeding 20 degrees in many areas. Very warm nights were recorded in locations such as Zegama (26°C) and Bidania (25°C). Inland, towns like Arrasate, Berastegi, and Ordizia experienced tropical nights, while coastal areas including Santa Clara Island (Donostia), Pasaia, and Zarautz saw minimum temperatures above 20 degrees.
The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued a red alert for maximum temperatures between 13:00 and 21:00, warning of "extraordinary danger." Meanwhile, Euskalmet maintains a yellow alert for both extreme high temperatures and the risk of forest fires.
One of the worst heatwaves in recent times is anticipated. In municipalities like Tolosa, temperatures are expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius, with 41 degrees in Beasain or Arrasate. Nighttime lows are not predicted to drop below 20 degrees. On the coast, Donostia will experience highs of up to 36 degrees, and Zarautz similarly. It is advised to avoid direct sun exposure and take precautions, especially for vulnerable individuals. Yesterday, Osakidetza treated seven people for heat-related issues.
The official start of summer on Friday, coinciding with the solstice, will be marked by intense heat. Euskalmet describes the heat as "peak summer," with maximum temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius across most of the territory and approaching 40 degrees in some locations. Euskadi, particularly the inland areas of Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia, is the only autonomous community where Aemet has activated a red alert for maximum temperatures with extraordinary danger.
Today's forecast is just the beginning of several consecutive days of extreme heat. Inland maximums are expected to surpass 40 degrees Celsius at least until Thursday. For tomorrow, Aemet also has a red alert activated for inland Gipuzkoa, with temperatures potentially reaching 43 degrees Celsius in Tolosa. Euskalmet anticipates that suffocating heat will continue to dominate, with highs ranging between 35 and 40 degrees across much of the territory.
These high temperatures, combined with scarce cloud cover and southeasterly winds, may lead to showers and thunderstorms by the end of the day, as has occurred recently. Gipuzkoa is entering a cycle of intense heat and storms expected to last for most of the week, with relief anticipated by next weekend. Experts recommend staying hydrated and protected from the heat outdoors.
