Heatwave warning activated in Catalonia
Government issues advice on how to deal with soaring temperatures expected until middle of next week
A heatwave warning was activated on Thursday set to last up to the middle of next week. All of Catalonia is affected.
According to the government’s Civil Protection agency, maximum extreme temperatures will be experienced throughout the country, save counties in the Pyrenees area.
From this Friday and Saturday, the heat will intensify, especially in the Pre-Pyrenees.
Recommendations for the heat
In the face of the episode of heat and extreme temperatures, Civil Protection advises citizens to keep hydrated, avoid being outside during hours of maximum sunlight, and to do sport either early in the morning or in the evening when the sun is no longer at its strongest.
For vulnerable groups, such as people with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children, it is recommended that they must drink water regularly even if they are not thirsty. Relatives or neighbours are asked to visit them to make sure they are staying hydrated.
People without a fan or air-conditioning are advised to spend at least a couple of hours a day somewhere where there is air-conditioning, such as a mall or library. Keeping pets hydrated is also a priority.
A version of the recommendations of how to keep safe during the heatwave can be found here.
High times
The Raval neighbourhood of Barcelona, in the centre of the city, registered its highest ever minimum temperature for a day of 28 degrees, according to the Meteorological Service. Meanwhile, in other parts of the country, the mercury reached 40 degrees.
High temperatures are set to continue over the weekend, according to the service. On Monday and Tuesday they may drop a bit, but will still remain high.
Man dies from heat
A man died in Barcelona on Friday due to a heat stroke. Since the heat warning was issued on Thursday, emergency services in Catalonia attended 27 incidents, including phone calls and victims of heat strokes.