The third summer heatwave threatens the Valencian Community, with forecasts of three consecutive days of maximum temperatures potentially reaching 45 degrees Celsius. This torrid episode, which began on Tuesday, will last at least until Thursday, according to a special notice from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet). Maximums above 40 degrees are expected in the southern half of the region, and up to 45 degrees in inland areas like Jalance on Thursday.
This situation is due to the arrival of a "very warm and dry air mass accompanied by high pressure." Although the heat will be felt throughout the southern half and inland, it will be particularly intense inland because "the axis of the ridge is shifting to the center of the Peninsula," favoring breezes and concentrating maximum values inland. In Xàtiva, for example, highs of 38 degrees are predicted for Tuesday and 41 for Thursday.
On the coast, temperatures will be high but less extreme, similar to the weekend or slightly higher, with around 33 degrees in Valencia, 35 in Dénia, and 37 in Alicante. However, minimums above 25 degrees will cause "a lot of muggy sensation."
Tuesday is expected to see significantly high values in the interior of Valencia and Alicante, with a probability of afternoon storms inland that could move to the coast. Wednesday will see a similar situation, with minimums not dropping below 27 degrees in cities like Alicante. Thursday will be the hottest day, with highs of 41 to 45 degrees in the interior of the southern half.
Aemet may issue red-level warnings, as occurred last Thursday. Significant danger is expected during the central hours of the day, especially for outdoor activities and vulnerable individuals. The fire risk will increase to extreme levels, with possible dry thunderstorms in mountainous areas.
The persistence of heat is having a direct impact on health. The Daily Mortality Monitoring System (MoMo) records an excess mortality of 231 people since May 15th. June was the deadliest on record with 62 deaths, and July already totals 167. It is anticipated that last summer's figures (416 deaths) could be surpassed this year.
