Tourists from the UK have been issued urgent advice
Neil Shaw Assistant Editor
12:22, 18 Jun 2025
A man drinks beer from a bottle while enjoying the landscape and the sunset, in Galicia, northern Spain
UK tourists heading for Spain have been warned by local authorities not to drink beer this week. Spanish authorities have issued a warning as temperatures exceed 40C. Parts of Spain, included Andalusia, hit 40C last weekend and the temperatures have not dropped – with no sign of them easing in the days ahead.
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued multiple alerts for large parts of the country, in both the north and south of Spain. And Spain’s Ministry of Health said: “Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration during heatwaves.”
Tourists, and locals, are being advised to d rink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty; w ear lightweight, breathable clothing; s tay in cool, shaded areas and a void strenuous activity during peak heat hours.
The UK’s Foreign Office warns: “Extreme weather can affect many areas of Spain, particularly over the summer months. Follow the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services for severe weather warnings.
Alcohol is a diuretic , meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration . I n hot weather, you’re already losing fluids through sweating, so alcohol increases the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Alcohol can dilate blood vessels, making you feel warmer even though your body might be overheating. T his can mask early signs of heat-related illness. Alcohol impairs your body’s ability to regulate its core temperature.
In extreme heat, this increases the likelihood of heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. In the heat, alcohol may make you more likely to underestimate how hot it is or forget to hydrate, seek shade, or apply sunscreen.
Symptoms of overheating—which can range from mild heat exhaustion to severe heat stroke—develop when your body can’t cool itself effectively.
Early symptoms (Heat Exhaustion):
These are signs your body is struggling with the heat but hasn’t reached a critical state yet.
- Heavy sweating
- Thirst and dehydration
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Irritability or confusion
Severe symptoms (Heat Stroke):
This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately if these appear.
- Core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher
- Hot, red, dry or damp skin (sweating may stop)
- Confusion, agitation, slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Rapid breathing
What to do if someone is overheating:
- Move them to a cool, shaded place
- Remove excess clothing
- Cool them with wet cloths, fans, or ice packs
- Offer cool water (only if they’re fully conscious)
- Call emergency services if symptoms are severe or don’t improve