Intense heat and Saharan dust return with thunderstorms possible inland: Alicante weather forecast July 20-23

Temperatures are expected to climb to between 39°C and 44°C in parts of Alicante this week, while Saharan dust and humid conditions could make the heat feel even more oppressive

There is no let-up from the intense heat at the moment, with Spain's state weather agency, Aemet, warning that another heatwave is on the way. After a very hot and humid weekend, temperatures will remain well above average over the coming days, with Saharan dust returning and thunderstorms possible inland. Here's a look at what to expect this week.

Monday July 20

The week gets off to another very hot start, with plenty of sunshine, some cloud at times and a layer of Saharan dust lingering in the atmosphere. Temperatures will continue to rise, with some inland towns expected to reach 39-40°C during the afternoon.

Winds will be light and variable before turning south-easterly around midday, doing little to bring relief from the heat.

Tuesday July 21

Tuesday will bring another hot and humid day, with Saharan dust expected to remain in the air during the morning. While there will still be plenty of sunshine, cloud is forecast to build through the afternoon, increasing the risk of thunderstorms across inland areas.

Any storms that do develop could bring light showers and even some very strong winds in places. Overnight temperatures will rise again slightly with highs of 41°C expected.

Wednesday July 22

Very little changes on Wednesday, with another day of intense heat expected across the Province. Sunny spells will continue alongside some cloud and lingering Saharan dust.

There is once again a chance of afternoon thunderstorms inland, which could bring light rain and winds, although many areas are likely to stay dry. Temperatures will remain largely unchanged, with inland parts of Alicante continuing to experience exceptionally high values.

Thursday July 23

Thursday looks like it will be the hottest day of the week. The morning will begin with mostly clear skies before cloud develops over inland areas later in the day, bringing a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms.

Daytime temperatures are expected to climb further, with some inland areas in the southern half of the Valencian Community potentially reaching 44°C. Coastal areas will be a little less extreme thanks to an afternoon sea breeze, but conditions across much of Alicante will be exceptionally hot.

With temperatures climbing well into the high 30s and potentially reaching 44°C inland later this week, it's worth taking a few extra precautions. Staying hydrated, avoiding the hottest part of the day and checking in on elderly neighbours, young children and pets can all help reduce the risks during periods of extreme heat. Meanwhile, the return of Saharan dust may also affect air quality, so anyone with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take extra care if dust levels increase.

Min and max temperatures in Alicante this week:

Monday July 20: Min 24ºC, Max 41ºC
Tuesday July 21: Min 25ºC, Max 41ºC
Wednesday July 22: Min 24ºC, Max 38ºC
Thursday July 23: Min 24ºC, Max 44ºC

See also: Mediterranean now hotter than ever as huge warm-water patch develops

Images: Aemet