Andorra Issues Warning for Unusual Late-May Heatwave Near 30°C

Andorra's meteorological service has issued a warning for an unusual heatwave gripping the Principat, with temperatures approaching 30°C in some areas this weekend—highly atypical for late May.

Today, Friday, conditions will feature mostly sunny skies with light northerly winds, though clouds may build in the afternoon, potentially bringing light showers to northern extremes. Maximum temperatures are forecast at 28°C in Andorra la Vella, 25°C at 1,500 metres and 13°C at Pas de la Casa, though southern sectors could hit 30°C. Minimums will range from 11°C in the capital to 6°C at mid-altitudes and 7°C at the Pas.

The heat stems from a warm air mass linked to an anticyclonic ridge originating in North Africa, which is blocking cooler fronts and ensuring atmospheric stability. Tomorrow, Saturday, temperatures are expected to peak slightly higher, reaching 29°C or 30°C in Andorra la Vella, 26°C at 1,500 metres and around 13°C at Pas de la Casa, with minimums of 12°C, 8°C and 8°C respectively. Sunday and Monday could see similar highs near 30°C at lower elevations.

This episode marks a notable thermal anomaly, with rises of up to 10°C over the past week, creating summer-like conditions unusual for the season. The service anticipates the warmth persisting into next week, though early showers—and possibly thunderstorms—may return, while temperatures remain above 25°C.

Officials urge caution, particularly during midday hours: stay hydrated, limit prolonged sun exposure and take other heat-related precautions. No immediate end to the high-pressure blockade is forecast, prolonging the stable, warm pattern.