British holidaymakers heading to Spain and Portugal face extreme heat next week.
Temperatures are forecast to reach a record 48c from today, triggering alerts from local authorities for those planning trips to both countries.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office updated its travel advice to warn that Spanish and Portuguese authorities are forecasting a “sharp increase” in temperatures.
Travellers heading to Spanish resorts are advised to take care when out in the sun and consult the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website for advice on sun protection.
The FCO adds: “High temperatures also carry an increased risk of forest fires; check on the outbreak of fires with the local civil protection authority and report any you may see immediately to the emergency services on 112.”
The heightened risk of forest fires also applies to Portugal, with holidaymakers from the UK urged to keep abreast of the weather forecast on the Portuguese Met Office’s website, check on the outbreak of fires with the local civil protection authority and report any to the emergency services.
An Abta spokesman told The Mirror: “Don’t do the British thing by putting yourself in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
“Drink lots of water, at least two litres a day, apply sun cream and keep in the shade.”
“We would advise any tourists setting off to the Iberian Peninsula, or anywhere else this weekend where they may experience high temperatures, to watch the locals and in effect do as they do.
“If you must go to the beach, watch what they do. Go early and when it gets to midday leave, just like they will, and go and have a nice lunch in the shade.
“The reason they do this is because they know how powerful the sun can get in the hottest part of the day and they do everything they can to avoid it. If you have small children remember they are even more susceptible to the warm weather so make sure they are covered up and in the shade at all times.”
Meanwhile, Britons holidaying Spain are being warned of an indefinite strike by taxi drivers in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Alicante, Malaga and Bilbao. Other destinations may be affected at short notice.
“The strikes are causing some disruption in city centres, as well as access to and from airports. If you were intending to make an important journey by taxi, consider alternative travel options and allow extra time to complete your journey,” the FCO advises.