On Wednesday, Barcelona experienced an unprecedented high temperature of 40.7°C, surpassing the former record of 40°C set in July 2024, as reported by regional meteorological services in Spain.
The Fabra Observatory, a key weather monitoring site in the city, recorded this new high, according to provisional data from the Catalan meteorological agency, Meteocat.
Prior to this reading, the observatory had already noted a temperature of 40.5°C, which had already exceeded the “absolute record” over its 112 years of measurements, marking a significant milestone for the location.
Historic Heat Records
At Barcelona Airport, located near the coast, temperatures reached 37.7°C, surpassing the previous record of 37.4°C established in August 2010. The Spanish meteorological agency Aemet confirmed this information, highlighting the long-term data collection at this site since 1924.
According to Aemet spokesman José Ángel Núñez, “Barcelona recorded its hottest day ever.” He elaborated that both of the city’s primary observatories, one at sea level and the other at an elevation of 408 meters, have documented historic records.
This surge in temperatures is part of a new heat wave affecting Spain, particularly in the northeast region, including Catalonia where Barcelona is situated. Two areas near Barcelona remain under a red alert, indicating an “exceptional danger” with potential for severe impacts on the population.
As a country on the frontlines of climate change in Europe, Spain is accustomed to high temperatures. However, it has been facing an increase in both the frequency and intensity of heat waves in recent years. Last summer, Spain also encountered its most severe wildfires in recent history.
