Summary
- Alicante province reached a sweltering high of 38.9°C in Orihuela due to westerly winds.
- Minimum temperatures remained above 25°C along the coast, marking tropical nights.
- High humidity in Benidorm made 35.3°C feel like 38°C.
- Weather forecast predicts a cooldown with temperatures returning to normal late August levels.
- Light rainstorms possible early next week, but no significant weather disturbances expected.
Alicante Nears 39°C After Tropical Nights, Heatwave Eases
The province of Alicante has just experienced one of the last heat spikes of a particularly hot August, with temperatures approaching 39 degrees Celsius. After a night that saw tropical minimums stubbornly holding above 25°C along the coast, the intense heat was driven mainly by the arrival of a westerly wind (viento de poniente), which pushed daytime highs up across the region.
Highs and Lows: Breaking down the Temperature Records
| Location | Max Temperature (°C) | Min Temperature (°C) | notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orihuela | 38.9 | 26.3 | highest max temperature. |
| Crevillent (El Realengo) | 37.9 | – | Second highest max. |
| Almoradí | 37.9 | – | High max temperature. |
| Elche (Vallverda) | 37.2 | – | strong heat. |
| Benidorm | 35.3 | – | High humidity: 65%, heat index near 38°C. |
| Novelda | – | 26.3 | Highest minimum temperature. |
| Tabarca Island | – | 26.2 | Coastal tropical night. |
| Torrevieja | – | 26.0 | warm night along coast. |
According to the latest readings from Avamet’s network of meteorological observatories, Orihuela led the pack with a sweltering 38.9°C by 5:30 PM.Other hotspots included Crevillent and Almoradí, each nearing 38°C, while the coast had tropical nights, with minimum temperatures not dropping below 25°C in places such as Alicante, Teulada-Moraira, and La vila Joiosa.
Humidity Adds to the Heat Impact in Benidorm
Benidorm, a popular summer destination, recorded a daytime temperature of 35.3°C. however, due to elevated humidity levels of around 65%, the heat index – or “feels like” temperature – soared to an uncomfortable 38°C.This added humidity can cause discomfort even when temperatures are below 40°C and makes cooling overnight more difficult.
Weather Outlook: Cooling and Mild evenings Ahead
The good news for locals and tourists alike is that the severe heatwave is expected to ease over the next few days.The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) forecasts a gradual decline in maximum temperatures,returning to more typical levels for late August and early September.
- friday: Partly cloudy skies with highs around 35°C in interior towns like Orihuela and elche, 33°C in Alicante city, and a mild 31°C in Alcoy and Dénia. Minimum temperatures will drop slightly but remain above 20°C in most places.
- Weekend: Mostly clear skies, with minor fluctuations in temperature-maxima steady and minima small rise expected Saturday; highs slightly increasing Sunday.
- Early Next Week: Possible light showers or thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday, but they are expected to be weak and limited in impact.
Why the Heatwave is Easing
The wind shift is the primary reason behind these changes. The westerly winds, which brought in hot and dry air leading to soaring daytime temperatures and tropical nights, are expected to weaken. Prevailing winds will become more variable and move towards easterly, introducing conditions that limit the extremes of heat.
Tips for Residents and Visitors
- Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor exertion during peak afternoon hours.
- Use fans or air conditioning during the night to cope with tropical minimum temperatures.
- Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are more agreeable.
- Monitor weather updates, especially if traveling to coastal areas like Benidorm where humidity increases heat stress.
As August winds down, Alicante transitions from the intense heat of summer to a more bearable early autumn warmth-signaling a welcome relief for many.
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