Irish tourists heading to Spain this week have been warned of extreme heat as the country experiences its first heatwave of the year.
Temperatures are expected to soar to 43C this week as a mass of hot air from North Africa sweeps over the country.
Spain's Met Office Aemet has predicted that the scorching heat will continue until at least Wednesday or Thursday.
Orange and yellow weather warnings have been issued in many areas of Spain including popular tourist destinations of Majorca in the Balearic Islands and Seville in the south.
Southern parts of the mainland are set to experience the most intense conditions with highs in Andalusia forecast to hit 44C at times on Tuesday.
Similar weather warnings have been issued for Portugal as well, with six districts under orange warning until Tuesday due to extreme temperatures.
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A statement from Aemet stated: "The heat will be very intense on the mainland and in the Balearics at least until next Wednesday and it is not ruled out that it could extend for a couple of days. The intense heatwave is very rare for the month of June."
Irish holidaymakers in Spain are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid exposure to the sun in peak hours of the day.
They have also been urged to take preventative measures to protect themselves from the heat, such as staying indoors, ensuring they stay hydrated and wearing SPF 50 suncream.
Spain's Department of Health issued the following advice to stay safe in extremely hot weather:
- Drink water and fluids often
- Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol as they can promote dehydration
- Pay special attention to infants and young children, pregnant women and the elderly
- Try and stay in cool, shaded places
- Reduce physical activity and avoid outdoor sports in the middle of the day
- Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing
- Never leave anyone in a closed and parked vehicle
- Keep medicines in a cool dry place
- Eat light meals that help replenish the salts lost through sweat
