Heatwave brings lows of 30ºC to northern Catalonia

The heat wave in Catalonia is not letting up.

Saturday night once again saw tropical (when night temperatures do no fall below 20ºC) and torrid (25ºC) temperatures on much of the coastal parts of the territory.

Record night temperatures such as the 29.8ºC minimum in Portbou (Alt Empordà), the 26.8ºC in Barcelona-Raval, and the 26.4ºC in Badalona-Museu stand out.

Thermometers skyrocketed on Saturday to 42.9ºC in Vinebre (Ribera d'Ebre), 41.2ºC in the Riba-roja reservoir and in Torroja del Priorat, 41.1ºC in Masroig, and 40.8ºC in the Siurana reservoir.

Civil Protection authorities maintain the heat alert active on Sunday, when highs will again exceed 40ºC in inland parts of Catalonia, particularly around the Terres de l'Ebre, Camp de Tarragona, Ponent, and parts of Empordà.

The plan to prevent the effects of heat waves on health is in phase 2. Local councils are asked to provide cool places or air-conditioned rooms to citizens, and to look out for the over 75s who do not have family support or other resources.

Civil Protection reminds people to hydrate often, drink plenty of water, and avoid drinking alcohol and eating large meals, avoid going out during peak sun hours and, therefore, tasks such as going shopping, preferably in the early morning or when the sun is settin.

People who work outdoors are urged to protect their heads with a cap or straw hat, and people are recommended not to do sports during the hottest hours.

Special attention should be given to people with chronic illnesses, children, and the elderly.

In the event that you do not have a fan or air conditioning at home, it's recommended to spend some hours in a place like a shopping center or a public facility where there is air conditioning.