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Several parts of the Region of Murcia are facing what could be the hottest day of the summer so far, with temperatures forecast to climb to almost 44°C and an orange weather warning in force across several inland areas.

 

Spain's State Meteorological Agency, Aemet, has activated the alert for Wednesday July 15 as a mass of extremely hot, dry air from North Africa pushes temperatures to dangerous levels across much of the Region.

 

The most severe conditions are expected in the Vega del Segura, where thermometers could reach 44°C during the afternoon. Orange alerts are also in place for the Altiplano and the North West, where temperatures between 41°C and 43°C are forecast.

 

According to Aemet, the warning will remain active from 1pm until 9pm, when the heat is expected to be at its most intense.

 

Further south, the Guadalentín Valley, Lorca and Águilas have also been bumped up from a yellow alert to orange, with temperatures expected to approach 39°C or 40°C.

 

Conditions will be slightly less extreme along the coast and in the Campo de Cartagena, where sea breezes should keep temperatures closer to 34°C to 36°C. Even so, high humidity is likely to make it feel considerably hotter.

 

The heat is not expected to ease much after sunset either. Forecasters are predicting another tropical night across many inland areas, with temperatures struggling to fall below 25°C.

 

With the orange alert now active, Murcia's Health Department is urging residents to take extra precautions, particularly older people, young children, outdoor workers and anyone with underlying health conditions.

 

Officials recommend drinking water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty, and avoiding excessive alcohol, sugary drinks and large amounts of caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.

 

Anyone planning outdoor activities is being advised to avoid the hottest part of the day, particularly between midday and 6pm, and to spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings, shaded areas or other cool spaces.

 

The authorities have also repeated warnings about the dangers of leaving people or animals inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can rise rapidly within minutes.

 

The combination of extreme heat, low humidity and wind is also creating a very high wildfire risk across the Region of Murcia. Emergency services are asking the public to avoid any activity that could accidentally start a fire, particularly in rural and forested areas.