Unprecedented Heat Conditions in Southwestern Europe

As Europe, particularly the western regions and the Maghreb, has recently experienced an unusually cool spell, a dramatic shift in weather patterns is unfolding this week. A significant influx of Saharan air is set to bring the first substantial heat waves of the season to the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. Between this Wednesday and the weekend, temperatures are anticipated to frequently reach between 35°C and 40°C in southern Spain, Portugal, and the interior regions of Morocco. Areas near Marrakech and southern Morocco may even see temperatures soar close to 42°C, while cities like Seville, Cordoba, and the Alentejo region in Portugal could reach highs of 38°C to 40°C.

A Remarkable Early Heatwave

This upcoming heatwave is noteworthy not just for its intensity but also for its early arrival, with temperature anomalies exceeding +10°C to +15°C above the seasonal averages. This peak in temperature is attributed to the strengthening of a subtropical ridge situated between North Africa and Southwestern Europe, which is fostering a strong southerly airflow. Although these temperature values may not surpass absolute summer records, they could represent one of the earliest near-heatwave sequences observed in these regions in recent years.

Historically, early heatwaves have rarely been documented at this time of year. For instance, in May 2015, Spain experienced an early heatwave where local temperatures reached 40°C in Andalusia by mid-month, marking one of the first major early heat peaks of the 21st century. Similarly, in May 2022, a notable heatwave struck Spain and Portugal, with temperatures soaring to 39°C to 41°C in Andalusia and the Alentejo region, resulting in several local monthly record highs. Most recently, an unprecedented early heat episode occurred in April 2023, with temperatures soaring to 38°C to 39°C in Spain and more than 41°C in Morocco around Marrakech. In May 2025, several inland regions of Morocco also approached or exceeded 40°C early in the season following an exceptionally warm spring across North Africa.

The forecasted temperatures of 35°C to 42°C this week could position this event among the most extensive and earliest heatwaves recorded in May across Southwestern Europe and the Maghreb.

As reported by actualite.lachainemeteo.com.