Spain’s 61 heatwave days as warm sea raises rain risk

Spain counts 61 heatwave days in 2026: two out of every three summer days. Meteorologists also warn that a warmer Mediterranean can give storms more moisture and energy when weather conditions are right. The figures come ahead of the United Nations climate conference, COP31, in Antalya, Turkey, from 9 to 20 November 2026.

Longer heatwaves, heavier downpours

Rubén del Campo, spokesman for Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), says the previous record was 41 heatwave days. Before that, it was 29.

He says torrential rain is not becoming more frequent, but can bring exceptional amounts when it does fall. In early October, parts of the Barcelona metropolitan area and its surroundings recorded more than 200 litres per square metre in less than 24 hours.

Why the Mediterranean matters

Meteorologist Mar Gómez says more than 90% of the planet’s excess heat ends up in the oceans. A warmer Mediterranean encourages evaporation and can supply storms with more moisture and energy — but only when the atmospheric conditions are right. That distinction matters for Mallorca, which sits in the Mediterranean: the warning describes a risk, not a rain forecast for the island.

Looking ahead, the World Meteorological Organization reports that atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide reached new highs in 2025. Meteorologists are also watching how El Niño may affect the coming months as COP31 approaches.

Topics: Weather · Sea & coast

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com