Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia are set to face the peak of an exceptional heatwave between Thursday and Friday, 29 and 30 May 2026, with temperatures potentially challenging May records. The forecast follows a period of unusually high temperatures across Europe since late last week, according to Betevé.
The current heat episode has already broken May temperature records in England and parts of France. Forecasters say similar records could fall in Barcelona and Catalonia, with residents advised to prepare for intense daytime heat and tropical nights.
In Barcelona, temperatures are expected to reach their highest point between Thursday and Friday. Maximums could range from 32C to 34C in the upper areas of the city, while pre-coastal areas could reach 35C.
These daytime highs will be accompanied by tropical nights, making sleep difficult. Some parts of Barcelona recorded their first tropical minimums of the season on Saturday, 23 May. The Fabra Observatory registered its first tropical night on Sunday, 24 May, three weeks earlier than usual. The most uncomfortable nights are expected between Thursday and Saturday, with minimums in the urban centre likely to stay between 23C and 24C. A scorching minimum above 25C cannot be ruled out.
Across Catalonia, the highest temperatures are expected in the western counties and parts of Central Catalonia. Between Thursday and Friday, thermometers could approach historical May records, reaching up to 38C or 39C in the hottest areas. The heat will also be felt in the Pyrenean valleys, where maximums are forecast to range between 32C and 36C on the hottest days.
This exceptional spell is linked to a strong anticyclone over the North Sea. The high pressure system, together with strong sunshine typical for this time of year, is driving the unusually high temperatures. Average temperatures across the week are projected to be between 6C and 10C above normal in southern Germany, England, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, Catalonia and France. For more local coverage, see Catalonia news.
The anticyclone is expected to weaken on Friday and shift south-west across Europe from Saturday. Temperatures should ease from the weekend, although forecasters do not expect a major cooling trend in the medium term. For official weather updates, check the Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya and the AEMET.
