The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange heat alert for the south coast of the province of Alicante, covering the municipality of Torrevieja, with temperatures predicted to reach up to 40 ºC. The alert is active today Wednesday, 19th August, between 13:00 and 20:59 hours.
Because an orange warning indicates significant danger, Torrevieja Town Hall is asking residents, visitors, and tourists to exercise extreme caution and follow emergency services recommendations.
Intense heat poses a higher risk to older people, babies, children, pregnant women, dependent or disabled individuals, people with chronic conditions, and anyone working or exercising outdoors.
Authorities recommend frequent hydration with water—even without feeling thirsty—and avoiding alcohol or dehydrating drinks. Sun exposure should be avoided during peak hours, particularly throughout the alert period.
If outdoors, people are advised to wear loose, light-coloured clothing, cover their heads with a cap or hat, apply sun protection, and spend time in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Meals should be light and fresh, prioritising fruit, vegetables, and water-rich foods over heavy or hot meals.
Strenuous physical activity, sports, and prolonged outdoor labour should be avoided during the hottest hours. Outdoor workers should take regular breaks in the shade, stay hydrated, and adjust their work schedules where possible. The council also suggests limiting extended stays on beaches, promenades, and open public areas during the middle of the day.
Family members, neighbours, and carers are urged to check regularly on elderly or dependent individuals, particularly those living alone. Special attention must also be given to infants, pregnant women, and people with cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, diabetes, or other chronic conditions. Anyone on medical treatments should not alter or stop their medication without consulting a health professional.
People and animals must never be left inside a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes or in the shade, as internal temperatures rise rapidly. Pets must have constant access to shade and fresh water, and walking them on hot pavement or during peak heat hours should be avoided.
If someone experiences dizziness, severe headaches, weakness, nausea, confusion, hot skin, seizures, or loss of consciousness, they should be moved to a cool place and given immediate assistance. In any emergency, call 112. Official updates should be followed via AEMET and 112 Comunitat Valenciana.
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