Spain lived worst heatwave in its historyThis is evidenced by preliminary data from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). Not only that, it is one of the three longest since the country has measured weather data, lasting at least ten days.
The initial calculation, according to the agency, is that the heat wave was supposed to start on July 10, but it came a day earlier. “This series started on the 9th [de julio] and it arrives at least until the 18th,” they explain. The longest recorded case to date occurred in 2015, spanning 26 days from June to July. It was followed by one recorded in 2003, which lasted 16 days from July to August.
On top of that, this heat in Spain also breaks records for territorial expansion. As of July 15, according to AEMET, 36 provinces have been affected, but they expect that number will increase when all verified data are received at all stations of the main meteorological network.
The strongest heat wave and one of the longest in the history of Spain, killing more than 500 people
Given these three data, the July 2022 heat wave can be classified as the most intense, third longest and possibly the longest in Spanish history. In fact, AEMET already considers it extraordinary and historic.
Agency spokeswoman Beatriz Ervella explained: “The fact that it falls into the bottom three in terms of intensity, duration and extent underlines its exceptional nature, since a wave can stand out in any of these three variables, but not in all at once. Also remember that this is preliminary data as “data from some stations still need to be included in the analysis to close it and because we are still within the event horizon” and what actually can extend the heat for more days.
According to the Carlos III Institute of Health, dependent on the Spanish Ministry of Health, this heat wave killed 510 people between 10 and 16 July. The maximum peak occurred on Saturday, July 16, when 150 people died.
But we can be a chain second heat wave, according to experts. Although there is no concrete data yet, and as of Tuesday, July 19, the temperature has decreased, it is expected that from Thursday, July 21, the thermometers will rise again and remain until Sunday.
It remains only to find out whether these are two different waves or can be considered its only one. According to AEMET, “two episodes separated by just one day count as one heat wave.” […] Forecasters estimate this, but it is not considered yet, although the situation is very close to the limit,” the spokeswoman concluded.
Source: Hiper Textual
