With the arrival of spring, temperatures begin to rise significantly in many regions. This meteorological phenomenon, known as an anticyclone, will exert pressure on the atmosphere, leading to an increase in temperatures. A powerful anticyclone positioned over the Iberian Peninsula is projected to increase temperatures in the coming days. between 4 and 10 degrees more, creating a completely spring-like atmosphere, even before the official arrival of this season, which will allow highs of up to 27 degrees, especially in the east and south of the country.
What is an anticyclone?
An anticyclone is a area of high atmospheric pressure Anticyclones form when air cools and sinks. This results in clear skies and stable weather, as it prevents the formation of clouds and precipitation. Anticyclones typically bring periods of calm and climatic stability, but they are also responsible for heat waves when they settle over a region for an extended period. For more information on these, you can consult the characteristics and types of anticyclones.
In particular, the current anticyclone is generating unusual conditions, as there is a lack of significant movement in the atmosphere, which prevents the entry of cold air from the outside. This stability translates into a notable increase in daytime temperatures in much of the country, which could be related to Changes in rainfall in Spain.
The powerful anticyclone over the peninsula
Weather forecasts indicate that over the next few days, Daytime temperatures will rise by 4 to 7 degrees in the central peninsula and the east and south. In the Canary Islands, the mercury could even reach 30 degrees, creating a climate more similar to that experienced in summer than in the transition to spring. This situation is also related to the rainfall changes affecting Spain, as explained in .
The influence of this anticyclone is powerful and, for the moment, the cold air troughs The factors that would normally displace it are not happening. This increase in temperatures in spring is anomalous; although climate change has contributed to the seasons behaving differently, the very high temperatures are extraordinary for this time of year, which could be linked to the dry summers that have affected Spain.
It is estimated that the situation will remain this way, possibly for dice días, until a cold front manages to displace the anticyclone, allowing temperatures to return to more normal values. This type of phenomenon can be compared to more extreme weather events, as mentioned in the drastic weather changes in Spain.
Maximum and minimum forecasts
According to data provided by the State Meteorological Agency, it is expected that Temperatures in Madrid reach 24 degrees during the day, a trend that will continue until Sunday. In Seville, the temperature is expected to reach 27 degrees, while in cities such as Córdoba, Huelva, and Murcia, temperatures are expected to be around 25 degrees. In general, almost all Spanish provinces will see temperatures ranging between 24 and 20 degrees. This contrasts with episodes of intense cold, such as those documented in the recent extreme cold in the country.
In the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife could register up to 30 degrees, while in Las Palmas temperatures are expected to reach 26 degrees. However, the nights will be different, as temperatures are forecast lower temperatures, especially in Castile and León, where Burgos and León will see lows of 0 and 1 degrees below zero, respectively.
Effects of the anticyclone in Spain
A phenomenon like this not only affects temperatures, but can also have repercussions on other climatic and environmental aspects. For example, the stability and increase in temperature generate conditions conducive to thawing of accumulated snow in mountainous areas, which could aggravate the drought situation in some regions, a problem that has intensified in the last decade with . High temperatures also increase water evaporation, affecting the availability of water resources, which is worrying in a context of climate change such as the current one.
Furthermore, the instability caused by high atmospheric pressure can lead to the generation of phenomena such as dense fog and, in some cases, air pollutionDuring periods of stable weather, such as that anticipated, cities may experience an increase in pollution levels due to the stagnation of particles in the air, which is especially worrying in metropolitan areas where high industrial activity and heavy traffic are contributing factors.
Heat waves and health
Heat waves associated with this type of anticyclones can have a significant public health impactNegative effects include increased incidence of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and exacerbation of preexisting health problems. It is crucial that authorities and the general public heed safety recommendations, which include:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Avoid sun exposure: Seek shade or stay indoors during the hottest hours.
- Proper clothing: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to help regulate body temperature.
- Solar protection: Apply sunscreen to areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Attention to vulnerable groups: Pay special attention to children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions.
Future prospects and advice
With the transition to spring and the impact of climate change, temperatures are expected to continue fluctuating, which has also been reflected in periods of rain such as the one mentioned in the rainstorms that have affected SpainThe arrival of a cold front is inevitable, and although it is expected to be a temporary relief, it is essential that the population is prepared for unexpected events. extreme weather and take appropriate preventive measures.
It is advisable to stay informed through official meteorological sources to receive updated alerts and forecasts that may affect public health and safety, including information on heat waves and their causes.
This atmospheric event reflects the complexity of our current climate situation and the importance of addressing climate change in a global context. With rising temperatures and associated natural phenomena, adaptation and mitigation are more necessary than ever.
This phenomenon is not unique or exclusive to the Iberian Peninsula; other countries also experience heat waves and climate disturbances due to atmospheric phenomena such as anticyclones. For example, high temperatures in various parts of Europe, which have been largely linked to global warming and climate change. In this sense, understanding how these weather patterns work is crucial to preparing regions and communities for the impacts these changes can bring.
