Heat dome in Spain: From Mallorca to Costa del Sol facing scorching temperatures

Experts forecast a strong dome of warm air over Spain in the coming days, keeping the temperature gradually rising after an unusually chilly start to May.

Warm air mass heats up late spring conditions

Temperatures across many parts of the country will now reach full-on summer levels. This shift follows a cold snap with readings 6 to 10 degrees below average and mountain snow in northern ranges. A persistent high-pressure ridge blowing up from northwest Africa now covers the Iberian Peninsula and is spreading northeast.

How this heat dome develops

High pressure acts like a lid trapping descending warm air and compressing it near the ground. This pattern pushes subtropical heat northward and builds over several days. Such domes occur more often in summer but bring more extreme conditions when stable.

Effects across key Spanish holiday destinations

Mallorca is experiencing notable rises, with daytime highs climbing steadily toward 30 degrees or more by late week. North Costa Blanca and South Costa Blanca see similar warming, with coastal areas feeling the build-up in humidity and heat, especially the Alicante area, which will see highs of 37ºC around Thursday.

Murcia records sharp increases as the warm air mass settles. Almeria faces potential peaks near 35º in inland spots while sea breezes moderate beach zones slightly. Costa del Sol prepares for intense warmth, especially inland from Malaga toward western stretches, where values may even approach 38ºC.

UK and Western Europe being brutalized by a "heat dome" fueled by dry African desert air, and "contorted" jet stream.

Climate change is the main culprit causing this nearly-unprecedented heat event, otherwise impossible without fossil fuels. pic.twitter.com/2LlFCoU2ER

— Ryan Maue (@RyanWeather) May 24, 2026

Week outlook for southern and eastern coasts

Maximum readings between 35ºC and 40ºC hit inland western Andalucia and Extremadura on Saturday and Sunday. Holiday regions in the east and south register 30ºC to 36ºC with some local patchy cloud.

Night-time temperatures stay warm and limit cooling in coastal zones. Vulnerable groups, including elderly residents and outdoor workers, face higher risks from prolonged heat.

Broader European spread

France is reporting 30 to 36 degrees in southwest areas today. Britain is looking forward to near 30ºC in parts over the weekend with tropical nights around 20ºC minimum. Central Europe and the Mediterranean basin warm markedly through early next week.

Spain maintains focus on this intense late-May heat as the high-pressure system matures. In short, we can look forward to a slightly muggier week ahead, with light breezes and some occasional cloud cover.