Severe Heat Wave Sweeps Through Spain

A severe heat wave hit a large part of Spain on Sunday, with temperatures rising to extreme levels, prompting residents and tourists to avoid going out in the sun and seek refuge in air-conditioned indoor spaces and swimming pools. The Spanish Meteorological Agency had warned of the first heat wave of the year in Spain, which would engulf most of the country with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in Madrid and Seville (south) for the second consecutive day. The heat is expected to move east across the country on Monday before temperatures begin to decline. Only a small section of the Atlantic coast in northern Spain will remain sheltered from the heat. Some residents of Madrid turned to the famous Prado Museum, which displays works by renowned painters such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and El Greco. Rosa Alfaghimi, 44, who was standing in line with her husband and daughter, said, "It's an appropriate outing for such a day." She added, "This happens every year; we almost forget about it," referring to their home, which is not equipped with air conditioning. Others headed to the nearby Retiro Park or to swimming pools. Authorities advised people to drink water regularly, wear light clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Meteorological experts reported that temperatures could reach 44 degrees Celsius in the Guadalquivir Valley near Seville on Sunday. The highest temperature ever recorded in Spain reached 49 degrees Celsius.