Spain's Weather Whiplash: From Heatwaves to Storms and Back Again
Meteorological summer has arrived in Spain, bringing with it the first severe heatwave of the season. Over the past days, many parts of the country have recorded maximum temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius or more, with widespread temperatures exceeding 35ºC. However, as the extreme heat that loomed at the end of May subsided, a notable shift in the weather patterns has occurred, leading to winds, rain, and stormy episodes affecting much of the geography.
The week began with storms and heavy rain particularly in the northern half of the Peninsula, accompanied by strong winds. As AEMET (the Spanish Meteorological Agency) noted, Tuesday's weather conditions are set to continue with localized storms, primarily impacting the interior north and northeast of Spain.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, AEMET has predicted further showers, especially in the northeast region and the Balearic Islands, which could be accompanied by occasional thunderstorms. As highlighted by the Meteored portal, this weather phenomenon can be attributed to a trough crossing through the territory during the early part of the week. This trough, characterized as a tongue of cold air at high levels of the atmosphere, leads to significant instability, cloudiness, abundant rainfall, and a marked drop in temperatures.
By Thursday, however, the forecast indicates a change. AEMET predicts a transition towards clearer skies and the dominance of sunshine without significant precipitation expected from Thursday through Sunday. This period will also witness a progressive and notable increase in maximum temperatures, signaling a return to the meteorological summer from which the nation has barely escaped for a few days.
Thus, Spain finds itself in a meteorological rollercoaster, oscillating between heatwaves and refreshing rain, showcasing the unpredictable nature of this summer season.
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