Spain Could Face Its First Heatwave of 2026 This Weekend, with Temperatures up to 42°C

According to data from eltiempo.es, the first heatwave of 2026 may arrive in Spain this coming weekend. The reason is a high-pressure area that will dominate the Iberian Peninsula all week.

The peak of the heat is expected this Saturday, when the 30-degree mark will be exceeded across almost the entire country, except for the Cantabrian coast. Maximum temperatures will be 5–10 degrees above normal for this time of year. The heat will particularly affect Madrid, Zaragoza, Toledo, Seville, and Granada, where thermometers will show up to 40 degrees. In Córdoba and Badajoz, up to 42 degrees is expected.

To speak of a fully fledged heatwave, the abnormal temperature must hold for at least three consecutive days. According to current forecasts, the heat may intensify on Sunday and spread to much of the south-west of the peninsula, also persisting on Monday and Tuesday.

Nevertheless, there is no official confirmation yet. A spokesman for the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), Rubén del Campo, noted that it is still too early to speak of exact temperatures and the duration of the episode.

La Cotorra spoke with cosmetologist and dermatovenerologist Dr Irina Gubey about how to enjoy the summer in hot weather without harming your health, including how to choose an SPF cream.