It seems that this week the so-called and dreaded dog days have finally arrived, so it will be necessary to arm yourself with patience and pull fans and air conditioners to be able to withstand such high thermal values.
The heatwave refers to the hottest time of the year and in which Temperatures easily exceed the stifling 40 degrees.
According to various statistics, the dog days are the hottest period of the year, with temperatures reaching their highest levels. The duration of this period usually ranges from July 15 to August 15, although it usually depends on each locality. There is no exact date for this beginning and this is due to several factors such as the fact that the Sun is very high in the early summer or solar radiation that causes the Earth to overheat.
Thus, the dog days start later in Spain, while in other parts of Europe or Africa it starts earlier. During the dog days, warm and dry air inlets from North Africa are usually produced on a regular basis. In these cases, it is important to take a series of precautions to avoid dangerous heat strokes, as they can sometimes lead to death.
According to weather forecasts, this heat wave will last three to four days, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees. However, the heat is here to stay, and There are areas of the peninsula where the average temperature during these weeks will be around 38 degrees. Given these facts, all that's left is to stay cool and protect yourself as much as possible from the extremely high summer temperatures.
What is the Dog Day?
En meteorology, the term Canicula It refers to the period of the year with the highest temperatures. This phenomenon occurs in the Northern Hemisphere and typically occurs between mid-July and early August. During these days, temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, causing extreme heat, especially in southern Spain.
An interesting factor to highlight is that The dog days in Spain have a beginning and end that can vary depending on the geographical location.For example, in coastal areas, the effect of the sea acts as a temperature moderator, unlike what happens in the interior of the peninsula, where the heat is more intense. If you'd like to learn more about this phenomenon, you can consult the dog days for more details.
Origin of the Term Canícula
The word Canicula It comes from the Latin Canicula, which means "little dog." This term is associated with the star Sirio, which is part of the constellation Major DogDuring ancient times, the heliacal rising of this star coincided with the beginning of the hottest period of the year, which was often interpreted as an omen of extreme heat.
In ancient times, our ancestors associated the brightness of Sirius with rising temperatures, since every time the star appeared on the horizon, the heat intensified. However, due to the precession of the equinoxes, today Sirius appears in the morning sky long after the dog days have begun.
Weather Conditions During the Dog Days
In Spain, the dog days are characterized by a series of climatic phenomena which increase local temperatures. During this period, it is common to observe heat waves caused by high pressure associated with warm air masses coming from North Africa. This situation causes not only an increase in temperature but also a decrease in humidity, which intensifies the sensation of heat.
In addition, the days during the dog days are usually dry with clear skies, which adds another element to the extreme weather conditions. During this time, temperatures can be extremely dangerous, especially for at-risk groups, such as the elderly, children, and people with chronic illnesses.
Highest Temperatures Recorded During the Dog Days
An alarming aspect of the dog days is the extreme temperature records that have been reached in recent years. On July 23, 1995 The highest temperature was recorded in Spain, reaching 46,6 degrees Celsius at the airports of Córdoba and SevilleThis figure not only marks a record, but also highlights the impact of climate change, which has led to increasingly intense and prolonged heat waves.
Another notable fact occurred on August 1th, 2003, when the 45 degrees in the city of Badajoz, an event that remains remembered as one of the most extreme in recent history. In the north, in Amieva-Camporriondi (Asturias), were registered 42 degrees on July 31, 2013, which was a historic record for the region.
Effects of the Heatwave on Health and the Environment
The heat wave not only affects temperatures, but also has serious consequences for people's health. Heat stroke is common and can be fatal if not treated properly. dehydration It is another important risk, and it is crucial that preventative measures be taken, such as drinking adequate water and avoiding sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day.
From an environmental point of view, high temperatures contribute to the drought, affecting agricultural crops. Water scarcity can lead to a decrease in agricultural production and an increase in the likelihood of forest fires, as dry land becomes much more susceptible to burning. For more information on this topic, you can visit the article on the forest fires.
Wildlife is also affected by the heat wave, as the scarcity of water and pasture can lead to increased mortality among various species. It is essential to adopt conservation measures to protect local fauna and flora from this climatic phenomenon.
Tips for Coping with the Heatwave
During the dog days, it's vital to take precautions to mitigate their effects. Here are some recommendations:
- Constant hydration: Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.
- Avoid going out during the hottest hours: Limit physical activity and direct sun exposure between 12 and 18 p.m.
- Wear light clothing: Opt for light-colored clothing and breathable materials.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Wear hats and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
- Light meals: Prefer fresh foods such as salads and fruits that contain higher water content.
Below are images that represent the dog days and their effects:
The dog days, although a seasonal phenomenon, are increasingly impacted by the climate changeAs global temperatures rise, the duration and severity of the heat wave are also likely to increase, highlighting the urgent need for more effective environmental policies. On a personal level, we must be mindful of our habits and make small changes that can have a significant impact on health and well-being during these hot months.
