Little-known tips to stay cool as Spain faces record May 2026 heat deaths

Amid record heat deaths in the month of May for Spain, ahead of the hottest months of the year, health authorities have warned that the spiking temperatures come with a rise in health risks. Now, more than ever, it is imperative to find ways to cool off during the summer, as officials warn of a scorching 2026 summer, heat stroke, and other health risks that come with extreme temperatures.

May brings record heat deaths in Spain: Authorities warn residents of health risks

Before the official beginning of the meteorological summer, last month brought 101 deaths attributable to high temperatures, the highest figure for a month of May since the beginning of recorded series in 2015. This represents a figure 3.6 times higher than the average number of deaths during the months of May, signalling a significant shift not only for peak temperatures, but for how early in the year the weather begins to get hot.

The real risks of record heat: Basic tips to stay cool

Most of the risk of heat strokes, exhaustion, or deaths come from prolonged exposure to the sun, dehydration, and overheated homes at night. To avoid health risks that come with the summer of 2026, there are various essential tips to keep in mind:

• Time your day like a local. Spaniards usually avoid going out at the peak heat window, from around noon to 6:00pm.
• Drink water constantly.
• Keep your home dark if possible, using fans strategically.
• Know the heat illness warning signs.

Some other, little-known tips include:

• Avoiding buildings with thin walls and top floors, which can trap heat like ovens.
• Avoid big meals and caffeine, and stick to light, cool foods.
• Electrolytes can be essential, especially if you’re sweating excessively.

The coolest countries in the European Union: Where to go to beat the heat

Many locals take the hottest months of the year as an opportunity to travel to cooler places. Some of the best countries to escape the heatwave:

• Nordic countries, including Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
• Ireland and the UK, which are cooler but wetter.
• Cooler places in countries that are still experiencing higher temperatures, like Brittany or Normandy in France, or the north of Germany.

But can you escape the heatwave without leaving the country?

In addition to these basic tips, it will also be helpful to know where in Spain it will be the hottest this summer, as well as where to go to escape the surging temperatures. For those looking to escape the heat and do some internal tourism at the same time, this summer 2026 may be the perfect opportunity to cool off by the coast or in the mountains.