Barcelona hits record 40.5C during Spain’s second heatwave

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Barcelona recorded its highest temperature in over a century on Wednesday as Spain endures its second major heatwave of the summer. The Fabra Observatory, which has tracked local weather data for 112 years, registered a peak of 40.5C. This extreme heat follows a trend of rising temperatures, with the city previously hitting 40C on July 30, 2024.

Record-Breaking Heat at Fabra Observatory

The 40.5C reading confirmed by the Fabra Observatory marks a significant milestone for Barcelona’s climate history. Weather records at the site date back to 1914, providing a long-term perspective on the region’s shifting thermal patterns. According to Meteocat, the regional meteorological agency, the extreme heat was not confined to the city center; large areas across Catalonia saw temperatures climb above 40C, including municipalities situated near the coastline.

Night-Time Temperatures and Regional Impact

In a record-breaking shift, the Portbou-Coll dels Belitres weather station recorded a minimum temperature of 31.9C at 10:27 p.m. on Wednesday night. This measurement represents the highest night-time minimum ever documented in the region, highlighting the severity of the current atmospheric conditions.

Health Risks and Official Alerts

Spain’s Ministry of Health has issued warnings as the country experiences sustained, extreme temperatures. Following a June that saw more than 1,000 heat-related deaths according to health reporting, officials have categorized various regions by risk level.

The Ministry’s current alert system classifies areas into "high," "medium," and "low" risk categories to guide public safety measures. Residents in affected regions are advised to follow official guidance on hydration, sun exposure, and physical activity. The current heatwave is considered particularly hazardous as it occurs during a period already marked by high baseline temperatures, leaving little recovery time for vulnerable populations.

Comparison of Recent Heat Trends

The current event surpasses the previous record set in 2024 by 0.5 degrees. Authorities continue to monitor the heat map as the system progresses, with further updates expected from the Ministry of Health regarding regional risk assessments.