A 40°C heatwave is set to hit the Canary Islands this weekend

The first heat wave of the summer will hit the Canary Islands this weekend and is expected to last until the middle of next week, according to the State Meteorological Agency. As the haze lifts on Friday, temperatures are set to increase to 40°C with a "very intense" heat, especially in areas inland and on the peaks of the islands.

AEMET have issued a pre-alert for a yellow weather warning which is to be activated on Friday at 10:00am, when temperatures of 36°C are forecast, particularly in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, in all areas of the islands, but being locally higher on the south coasts, the facing south slopes, and high areas.

Following this, temperatures will rise to 40°C over the weekend and extreme temperatures will affect all of the islands, before a "slight thermal relief" in the middle of next week, before AEMET predicts it is likely that the heat will return during the second half of next week.

The Government are preparing warnings for people to stay in the shade as much as possible, have protection from the sun by sun cream or clothes, to stay well hydrated, keep properties well ventilated, and not to lock children or pets in cars.