Society

Tourists urged not to drink beer after safety alert issued in popular summer destination

Health authorities advise avoiding alcohol during a heat wave that could exceed 40°C in several areas of the country.

Una mujer toma una cerveza en una terraza de Madrid.
Eduardo Parra
Update:

Tourists pouring into Spain this summer — especially those coming from the UK — are being met with a stern piece of advice from health authorities: don’t reach for that cold beer.

That’s right. As temperatures soar past 104°F (40°C) across parts of Spain, the country’s Ministry of Health has urged both locals and tourists to steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks amid what could be one of the most intense heatwaves of the year.

And while this guidance might put a damper on the dream of sipping a cold one under the Mediterranean sun, experts say the warning could save lives.

What’s behind the “no beer” warning?

Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología), has issued multiple high-level weather alerts across the country — citing a dangerous mix of extreme heat and severe thunderstorms.

This past weekend, parts of Andalusia baked under blistering 104°F heat, and regions like Córdoba are now facing an unstable combination of scorching temperatures and electrical storms.

Further north in Aragón, authorities activated amber alerts for expected hailstorms and strong winds — a volatile cocktail of summer weather that demands caution.

Why alcohol makes it worse

The Ministry of Health didn’t mince words: alcohol dehydrates you — and in this heat, that’s dangerous. The same goes for coffee and soft drinks, which may worsen dehydration and put added stress on your body.

Even if it feels counterintuitive to skip the cerveza while lounging poolside, doctors say alcohol can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature — increasing your risk of heatstroke, dizziness, and even fainting.

Their key tips:

  • Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty
  • Avoid direct sun and intense activity during peak hours (usually 12–4 PM)
  • Wear light clothing
  • Stay in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned spaces

Who’s most at risk?

The most vulnerable groups during extreme heat are:

  • Elderly individuals
  • Young children
  • People with chronic illnesses

Symptoms of heatstroke can include:

  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Headache
  • Muscle weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • In severe cases, loss of consciousness

If you or someone near you shows these signs, medical attention should be sought immediately.

UK media sounds the alarm

British outlets like the Daily Express have picked up on the warning, with headlines urging travelers: “Don’t Drink Beer”. It may sound dramatic, but with tens of thousands of Brits flocking to Spain for sunshine and beach days, authorities are doubling down on their message.

Their goal? To avoid heat-related hospitalizations and ensure that vacations don’t turn into emergencies.

Where to stay informed

With temperatures continuing to rise and real-time alerts evolving by the hour, tourists are encouraged to check official updates from:

AEMET – for weather warnings

Ministry of Health – for health advisories and tips

Being prepared — and adapting your habits — could be the key to enjoying your trip safely and stress-free.

Traveling to Spain? Here’s what you should really be packing

Forget just sunscreen and swimsuits. If you’re heading to Spain this summer, bring:

  • A refillable water bottle
  • Loose, breathable clothes
  • Electrolyte tablets
  • And yes — maybe consider swapping your beach beer for a refreshing sparkling water instead

The sun may be part of the plan, but surviving the heat is essential for making the most of your stay.

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