MADRID / RankWire.AI / – Mainland Spain experienced its hottest summer since reliable records began in 1961, with an average temperature of 24.5 degrees Celsius over June, July, and August. Official data released by the national meteorological authority confirmed that seasonal temperatures surpassed the previous record established in 2025 by 0.3 degrees Celsius and exceeded the 1991–2020 climate baseline by 2.4 degrees Celsius. This record heat was marked by extreme heat events across two-thirds of the summer period.
The State Meteorological Agency’s statistical report indicates that the country recorded an unprecedented total of 61 heatwave days during the three months. This figure significantly exceeds the previous record of 41 heatwave days set during summer 2022. Meteorological analysts highlight that all ten of the hottest summers in Spain’s history have occurred in the 21st century, emphasizing a rapid long-term warming trend across southern Europe.
The intense heat severely affected public health and municipal infrastructure across northern and southern regions. Epidemiological data from the Carlos III Health Institute estimate that over 5,000 deaths were directly linked to extreme heat between June and August. This marks the highest total recorded since the health monitoring agency started tracking heat-related mortality in 2015.
National Meteorological Authority Confirms Record Seasonal High Temperatures
High temperatures also led to severe environmental conditions, impacting forests and rural farmland nationwide. The European Forest Fire Information System reports that nearly 296,000 hectares were consumed by wildfires up to early September. As prolonged dry spells drained regional reservoirs, the season’s heat further complicated agricultural irrigation and hydroelectric operations.
Monitoring stations recorded that exceptional thermal conditions extended beyond the usual summer months. On September 2, a station in El Granado, in southwestern Spain, measured a peak of 45.7 degrees Celsius, tying the national September temperature record. Forecasters confirmed that elevated heat persisted from late May through early September across various autonomous communities.
Over 290,000 Hectares Affected by Summer Wildfires
In light of the official meteorological data, government ministers presented the findings to parliament to push for expanded environmental protections. Minister for the Ecological Transition Teresa Ribera urged parliamentary groups to support comprehensive legislation aimed at climate adaptation, emergency infrastructure, and drought resilience strategies.
Meteorological agencies and health authorities will continue monitoring temperature trends and environmental impacts throughout the autumn. Official statistics and environmental data will remain accessible via government portals as public health officials assess long-term adaptation measures. Regional authorities are coordinating resource management plans to address ongoing agricultural and ecological challenges.