Holidaymakers given two month weather warning about popular holiday spots in Spain – including half term
HOLIDAYMAKERS planning trips to Spain and Portugal have been warned that the unusually dry conditions in the region will last until November.
Both countries have faced a heatwave this summer, with wildfires breaking out as a result.
A report by the EU's Earth observation programme, Copernicus, has now said that the two countries could be set for dry weather that will last "till November".
The report reads: "Recent precipitation (mid-August) may have alleviated drought conditions in some regions of Europe.
"However, in some areas, associated thunderstorms caused damages, losses, and may have limited the beneficial effects of precipitation.
"Warmer and drier than usual conditions are likely to occur in the western Euro-Mediterranean region in the coming months till November 2022.
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"In some areas of the Iberian Peninsula, [we are] warning that drier than usual conditions are forecasted for the next three months."
The UK government's travel advice urges travellers to "take care" when visiting Spain due to the risk of wildfires.
It says: "There is currently a heightened risk of forest fires due to exceptionally high temperatures in Spain.
"Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas.
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"Access to some areas such as natural parks and nature reserves may be limited or closed as a result.
"You should follow the instructions of local authorities and call 112 if you need emergency assistance."
The government also advises visitors to Portugal to "familiarise yourselves with local emergency procedures and restrictions in place."
Parts of Spain have already had to impose restrictions on tourists this summer due to drought conditions.
Costa del Sol council chiefs had to turn off beach showers at places like Rincon de la Victoria, Velez-Malaga and Algarrobo because of the problems.
The mayor of Velez-Malaga, Antonio Moreno Ferrer, said: “It’s not an easy decision to take at the height of summer with our beaches full of locals and visitors and we’re sorry for the inconvenience this can cause.
“But we’re facing a critical situation and any measure that can help to lessen the effects of the drought has to be adopted, starting with local councils setting an example.”
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Meanwhile, Brit holidaymakers were also warned Menorca could run out of water during a massive surge in visitors and the extreme heat in peak tourist season.
And tourists heading to Spain have been warned of a shortage of holiday essentials this summer.
