Canicula It is the term used to designate the time of year in which the The heat is more intense in SpainThis period, which usually span from mid-July to mid-August, coincides with the driest and most sultry days, when maximum temperatures can easily exceed 35 or 40 ºC in many parts of the country.
This phenomenon, known for complicating nights and causing heat waves, not only affects people's well-being, but also increases the risk of forest fires and heat-related health problems, such as the so-called heat hitsHowever, this year the dog days are somewhat atypical in certain places, with very marked contrasts between areas due to the entry of cold air masses which have left temperatures below what is usually normal in the middle of summer.
Why does the dog days occur?
El extreme heat of these days responds to a combination of meteorological factorsOn the one hand, the accumulation of solar energy during the summer causes the soil and air temperatures to reach their maximum, even though the longest day (the solstice) occurred weeks earlier. Furthermore, warm, dry air inflows from North Africa They enhance the sensation of heat, often accompanied by haze and suspended dustAll of this has a cumulative effect, meaning that even though the sun begins to lose strength after the solstice, the atmosphere retains heat, which explains why the dog days occur weeks after the longest day.
The origin of the term 'canícula'
The word Canicula comes from Latin and means "little dog", in reference to the time when the constellation of Canis Major and its brightest star, Sirius, appear close to the sun in the sky. In ancient times, it was believed that the strong luminosity of Sirius heralded the hottest days, an association that has persisted to this day in European and Mediterranean cultures.
Meteorological chronicles have recorded extreme weather events over the years during the dog days, highlighting the 46,6 ºC reached at the airports of Córdoba and Seville in some particularly intense summers. Even in the north, such as Asturias, unusual values above the 42 ° C.
What's happening this year? Unusual contrasts in the middle of summer
In this year's dog days, Spain is experiencing unusual situationsWhile in the south and inland warnings persist for extreme temperatures (AEMET has activated alerts in communities such as Andalusia, Extremadura and Madrid, with maximum temperatures close to 39-40 ºC), other areas such as the Cantabrian coast or the Valencian Community have experienced notable cold anomaliesMinimum temperatures below 10°C have been recorded. 10 ° C (and even negative temperatures in northern areas such as Prado Veneiro, León), and very low temperatures in cities that usually experience extreme heat.
The atmospheric pattern in 2025 is conditioned by pulses of cold air, coming from the Arctic and channeled through the jet streamThese cold masses have favored rainfall and temperature drops, unusual during the dog days, especially in the Balearic Islands, the northeast, and high inland areas, with thermal anomaly maps showing temperatures below the seasonal average.
Recommendations for the heat wave: how to protect yourself
During the dog days, and even more so in years when extreme temperatures alternate with cold spells, it is essential to follow a series of basic tips to prevent health problems:
- Constant hydration: Drink water frequently, even if you are not thirsty, and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
- Proper clothing: Wear light, light-colored, loose clothing and protect your head with a hat or cap.
- Limit sun exposure: Avoid outdoor activities during the central hours of the day (12:00 to 18:00) and always seek shade.
- Use of sun protection: Apply high-factor cream, wear sunglasses, and take special care of the skin and eyes of vulnerable groups.
- Home ventilation and cooling: Keep blinds down during the day and ventilate during the cooler hours.
- light diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, and fresh foods instead of hot or heavy dishes.
- Care for vulnerable peopleChildren, the elderly, pregnant women, and sick people should receive special care during the warmer days.
- Fire Caution: Do not throw waste in the field and take extreme care with materials that can start fires.
- Monitor for symptoms of heat strokeIf you experience dizziness, weakness, headache, or cramps, seek a cool place, hydrate, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
This year, many cities are holding their festivities right in the middle of the summer heat, so it's advisable to adapt your plans to the weather forecast and protect yourself from the heat, especially if you're attending large or outdoor events.
The dog days continue to be the annual event of extreme heat in Spain, although this year's weather is producing unusual images of cool nights and marked contrasts between regions. Although high temperatures persist and the risk of heat stroke or fires remains, staying informed, following recommendations, and caring for the most vulnerable groups is essential to facing this season more safely.
