Saharan air brings intense heat and humidity: Alicante weekend weather June 18-21

Highs of up to 37°C inland and uncomfortable overnight temperatures, as AEMET warns of a prolonged spell of unusually hot weather

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an information notice warning of a spell of unusually high and persistent temperatures that is expected to begin this weekend as a mass of hot Saharan air moves across the country.

Much of Spain is expected to be affected by the heat, with some regions likely to see temperatures exceed 40°C. While Alicante Province is not forecast to experience the most extreme temperatures, elevated humidity along the coast will make it feel even hotter. Temperatures are expected to begin rising from Saturday and remain high into next week.

According to AEMET, there is still some uncertainty over exactly how long the episode will last, although forecasters expect the heat to continue beyond the start of next week.

Here's a day-by-day look at what residents can expect over the coming days.

Thursday June 18

Thursday will be bright and sunny with some cloud around at times. There is a slight chance of rain in the north of the province. Temperatures will creep up a little with highs of 32°C.

Luckily, some light winds are expected inland, with a north-easterly breeze along the coast, making it feel more comfortable.

Friday June 19

Friday will be pretty similar to Thursday, expect another warm sunny day with some cloud around at times. Temperatures will creep up again with highs of 33°C.

Light winds will continue inland, while a north-easterly breeze continues along the coast.

Saturday June 20

Saturday will be a hot and sunny day. Temperatures will climb even higher with highs of around 36°C in some areas. 

Winds will be stronger along parts of the Alicante coast, while inland areas see lighter, more variable winds, gradually turning easterly in the afternoon.

Sunday June 21

Hot and mostly sunny conditions will continue, with temperatures rising even further. Coastal areas are likely to reach low to mid 30s, while inland areas could see highs of up to 37°C. Humidity levels will be high, making it feel even warmer, especially overnight unfortunately. 

Winds will be light and variable inland, with a north-easterly breeze along the coast.

As temperatures rise over the coming days, it's important to take basic precautions during the hottest hours. Staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and taking breaks in the shade will be especially important as the heat builds.

Elsewhere in Spain, conditions are expected to be more extreme, particularly inland, where temperatures could rise significantly. The heat is being driven by a high-pressure system over Europe, combined with an upper-level low-pressure system, known as a DANA, positioned to the west of the Iberian Peninsula. So some areas in the north of Spain will experience some heavy rain and thunderstorms. 

In Alicante, they expect a slight drop in the temperatures from Tuesday June 23 onwards, but it will still be above average for the time of year.

Min and max temperatures in Alicante this weekend:

Thursday June 18: Min 17ºC, Max 32ºC
Friday June 19: Min 17ºC, Max 34ºC
Saturday June 20: Min 18ºC, Max 35ºC
Sunday June 21: Min 18ºC, Max 36ºC

Read also: Is the first summer heatwave on its way? Spain weather forecast June 18-21

Images: Aemet