Girona province is set for a spell of tropical nights this week, with Empordà and Gironès forecast to stay above 20C before the end of May. In some places, overnight temperatures could be much higher, with Portbou forecast at 25C, Cadaqués at 24C and Figueres at 23C on Thursday.
Meteorological predictions point to warm air moving in from North Africa as the main cause. May usually brings milder nights, but recent years have seen more spring nights staying warm across Catalonia.
The article links this pattern to global warming and changes in atmospheric circulation. It also notes that a lack of rain in recent months has helped temperatures rise, because dry ground retains more heat.
Health authorities advise people to take care during periods of intense heat, especially older adults, children and people with long-term health conditions. The advice includes drinking plenty of water, avoiding direct sun in the middle of the day and spending time in cooler places.
Temperatures are expected to remain high in the coming days, although a slight drop may arrive from Saturday. Even so, warm nights are likely to continue through the week. For more Catalonia-wide coverage, see our news page.