Spain heatwave warning after 212 people die

Alsharq Tribune- Sarah Benkraouda 

Tourists travelling to Spain have been issued a warning following an estimated 212 deaths reported across the country in a matter of days.

The Majorca Daily Bulletin reports that the fatalities have been attributed to soaring temperatures as Spain grapples with its first heatwave of the year, which started last Sunday and is now starting to ease.

The publication said the central and northern areas have borne the brunt of the extreme conditions. Wednesday, June 24, saw the highest excess mortality rate, accounting for nearly half of the deaths (96).

These are preliminary figures and we will have to wait a week for them to become more stable, Diana Gómez, a scientist at the National Centre for Epidemiology (CNE), said.

British tourists in Spain are being advised to cut back on alcohol consumption during periods of intense heat. Spain's Ministry of Health said: "Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration during heatwaves.

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which means it boosts urine production and can result in dehydration. In sweltering conditions, you're already losing fluids through perspiration, so drinking alcohol heightens the danger of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Both tourists and locals are being urged to drink water frequently, even if they don't feel thirsty; wear light, breathable clothing; remain in cool, shaded spots and steer clear of strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.

The UK's Foreign Office warns: "Extreme weather can affect many areas of Spain, particularly over the summer months.