Heat action plans are activated in Spain when AEMET forecasts exceed province-specific thresholds (e.g., Madrid: >36.7 °C sustained maximum). The National Preventive Action Plan distinguishes risk levels (0–3) with graduated measures: information, monitoring of vulnerable people, opening of cooled shelters.
Heat waves are the deadliest meteorological cause in Spain (~1,800 excess deaths/year in 2022). Most vulnerable groups: over-65s, chronic patients, outdoor workers, and homeless people. Tropical nights (>20 °C) worsen the impact by preventing nocturnal recovery.