Spain faces record heatwaves and social crises in summer 2026

Spain is facing significant challenges during the summer of 2026, characterized by extreme weather and social tensions. In the Comunitat Valenciana, August 2026 has been recorded as the warmest month on record, with an average temperature of 26.5 degrees Celsius, which is 2.1 degrees above reference levels.

According to Aemet, temperatures remained persistently 2 to 3 degrees above normal throughout the first half of August. On August 19, extreme heat triggered red alerts, with temperatures exceeding 42 degrees in coastal areas of Valencia and Alicante. Specific locations like Carcaixent reached 44.5 degrees, and Xàtiva recorded 44.3 degrees.

Beyond the climate crisis, the summer has also been marked by social and political concerns in Ceuta. The region is experiencing a dual crisis involving migratory pressure management and issues regarding territorial integrity, leading to demonstrations and instances of violence.