Heatwave to End Tomorrow

Canary Islands Swelters as Heatwave Peaks, Relief in Sight

The Canary Islands are experiencing the peak of a meaningful heat episode, with temperatures soaring close to 40 degrees Celsius yesterday. While a light calima (Saharan dust) has contributed to the discomfort, the State Meteorology Agency (AEMET) forecasts a welcome descent in temperatures starting tomorrow, with milder conditions expected for the remainder of the week.

Yellow warnings for high temperatures remain in effect today until 7 pm for Tenerife,La Palma,La Gomera,El Hierro,and Gran Canaria. However, AEMET anticipates no further atmospheric anomalies beyond typical summer heat from tomorrow onwards.

Yesterday,the mercury climbed to a sweltering 39.8 degrees celsius in San Bartolomé de Tirajana on Gran Canaria, a marked increase from the previous day. The heat was widespread across the archipelago, with El Paso on La Palma recording 36.9 degrees and Arure on La Gomera reaching 35.5 degrees.

Today is expected to remain stifling, with AEMET predicting highs of 34 degrees Celsius in the southern and western areas of the Western Islands. Gran Canaria could see temperatures as high as 36 degrees. adding to the challenging conditions, “occasionally strong” winds are anticipated in the northwest and southeast of the islands, a factor of particular concern for firefighting teams battling a forest fire in northwest Tenerife.

Residents in the south and west have also been contending with unusually warm nights, with minimum temperatures exceeding 24 degrees Celsius.These “tropical nights” substantially disrupt sleep, bringing them close to the threshold of an “equatorial night,” defined as minimums above 25 degrees.

Moderate Temperature Decline Expected

A noticeable change in the weather sensation is expected from Wednesday. Meteorological models indicate a moderate decrease in temperatures, with the most significant drops anticipated in the higher elevations and mid-altitude areas. By Thursday, temperatures are projected to stabilize at typical summer levels and remain there throughout the rest of the week.

ItS crucial to note that, with the exception of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Graciosa, the entire archipelago has been on a forest fire alert since yesterday morning. This alert applies to areas above 400 meters in all aspects. Consequently,the Cabildo de Tenerife,and other island authorities,have implemented bans on fires in recreational and outdoor areas,including barbecues,bonfires,and the use of portable stoves or gas kitchens. The public is strongly advised against entering or remaining in forest areas while the alert is active.

What specific populations are most vulnerable to health complications during extreme heat events, according to the CDC?

Heatwave to End Tomorrow: Relief is on the Horizon

Understanding the current Heatwave

The prolonged period of exceptionally high temperatures impacting much of the nation is finally nearing its end. For over a week, record-breaking heat has gripped communities, leading to increased strain on infrastructure and public health concerns. This intense summer heat, driven by a persistent high-pressure system, has seen temperatures consistently exceeding 90°F (32°C) in many areas, with some regions surpassing 100°F (38°C). The National Weather Service has issued numerous excessive heat warnings and heat advisories, urging residents to take precautions.

What Caused This Heatwave?

Several factors contributed to this extended period of extreme heat:

High-pressure system: A strong, stationary high-pressure system parked over the central United States acted as a lid, trapping warm air and preventing the growth of cooling fronts.

Jet Stream Displacement: The jet stream, typically responsible for steering weather systems, shifted northward, allowing warmer air from the Gulf of Mexico to surge further inland.

Climate Change Influence: While attributing any single weather event solely to climate change is complex, scientists agree that rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves. The overall warming trend exacerbates these conditions.

Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities experienced even higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect, where concrete and asphalt absorb and retain more heat than natural landscapes.

When Will the Heat Break?

The good news is that a cold front is moving across the country, bringing with it a significant drop in temperatures. Most areas will experience relief starting tomorrow, July 30th, 2025.

Northeast & Midwest: Temperatures will fall from the high 90s to the low 80s (32-28°C) by afternoon. A chance of showers and thunderstorms will accompany the front.

Southeast: While the heat will linger slightly longer in the Deep South, temperatures are expected to drop below 90°F (32°C) by Friday. Increased humidity will remain a factor.

Southwest: The Southwest will see a more gradual cooling trend, with temperatures decreasing over the weekend. Monsoon moisture may bring localized thunderstorms.

Pacific Northwest: Already experiencing some relief, the pacific Northwest will continue to see temperatures in the cozy 70s and 80s (21-27°C).

Health Concerns & Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

Even as the heatwave subsides, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Recognizing the Symptoms:

Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps.

Heatstroke: High body temperature (103°F or higher), confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures. This is a medical emergency – call 911 instantly.

Practical Tips for Staying Cool:

1. Hydrate: drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is best, but electrolyte-rich beverages can also be helpful. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol.
2. Seek Shade: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. If you must be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
3. Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
4. Cool Showers/Baths: Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
5. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Elderly individuals,young children,and people with chronic medical conditions are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Check on them regularly.
6. Never Leave children or Pets in Cars: Temperatures inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even on a relatively mild day.

Impact on Infrastructure & Agriculture

The recent heatwave placed significant stress on critical infrastructure. Power grids experienced increased demand as people cranked up their air conditioners, leading to localized outages in some areas. Water resources were also strained, with some communities implementing water restrictions.

The agricultural sector also suffered. Crop damage was reported in several states, particularly for heat-sensitive crops like corn and soybeans. Livestock also experienced heat stress, leading to reduced productivity. Farmers implemented strategies like increased irrigation and providing shade to mitigate the impact.

Looking Ahead: Long-Term Heat Preparedness

While this particular heatwave is coming to an end, the risk of future extreme heat events remains high. Investing in long-term heat preparedness measures is essential. This includes:

strengthening Infrastructure: upgrading power grids and water systems to withstand increased demand.

Urban Planning: Implementing strategies to reduce the urban heat island effect, such as planting trees and using reflective building materials.

Public awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the risks of extreme heat and how to stay safe.

Early Warning Systems: developing and improving early warning systems to provide timely alerts about impending heatwaves.

Resources:

national Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Extreme Heat: [https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/index.html](