Spain Endures Fourth Summer Heatwave: Northern Regions Reach Record Highs

Spain is facing an unprecedented fourth summer heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in its northern regions. Extreme risk alerts have been issued, particularly affecting Cantabria and the Basque country. Authorities urge citizens to stay hydrated and avoid the sun, especially the vulnerable populations.

Spain is grappling with its fourth summer heatwave, with regions in the north experiencing unusually high temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday.

Over the weekend, temperatures surged across the country, notably impacting traditionally cooler northern areas such as the Cantabrian Sea region. The extreme heat prompted "extreme risk" alerts in Cantabria and the Basque country, as reported by weather service AEMET. In Bilbao, one of the hardest-hit cities in the Basque country, residents donned hats and used fans to cool off. "It's too hot, you can't just be in the streets, neither at the beach," said Josefa Castillo.

Belgian tourist Patrick Heremans expressed his surprise at the intense heat: "We're unused to this kind of temperature, but we're going to the museum today, where there's air conditioning." Spain's health ministry advised the public to drink water, avoid direct sunlight, and take special care of children and the elderly. The weather service predicts a drop in temperatures beginning Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)