Spain has experienced an unprecedented level of extreme heat this year, with the country recording 61 heatwave days during 2026, according to Spain’s national weather agency AEMET. The figure is the highest recorded and far exceeds the previous record of 41 days in 2022.

The country also experienced its hottest summer since records began in 1961, with the average temperature reaching 24.5°C. That was 2.4°C above the 1991–2020 average and slightly higher than the previous record set in 2025.

AEMET reported that four separate heatwaves affected mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. One of the most recent episodes lasted six days in early September, meaning exceptionally high temperatures affected Spain on a large proportion of the summer days.

The extreme conditions are increasing concerns about the impact of climate change on public health, agriculture, water resources and energy demand. Prolonged periods of high temperatures can also increase wildfire risks and put additional pressure on emergency services.

Spain’s experience comes as several European countries continue to face unusual weather conditions. Scientists and meteorological agencies are closely monitoring the frequency and intensity of extreme heat as Europe experiences increasingly challenging summers.

The record-breaking figures are likely to keep climate resilience and heat protection measures high on Spain’s national agenda, particularly as authorities prepare for future periods of extreme temperatures.