THE State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued extreme heat red alert warnings for several parts of the Murcia region on Thursday.

The highest emergency alert for temperatures reaching 44C applies to the Vega del Segura, the Guadalentin Valley, Lorca and Aguilas and will be active between 1pm and 9pm.

A red alert represents the highest level of risk expected due to high temperatures and poses a dangerous situation for the population.

Protection measures are recommended for more sensitive groups such as the elderly, children, patients with chronic diseases as well as workers or athletes operating outdoors.

AEMET is maintaining an orange warning in the Altiplano area of Murcia where the maximum values could be around 42C and in the North-West were it could reach 40C.

The Campo de Cartagena and Mazarron areas remain under yellow warning, with temperatures that could reach 38C.

The region is also on alert for possible storms, which could be accompanied by intense gusts of wind and even hail.

They are more likely during the afternoon and in inland areas.

Individual councils have issued warnings to residents and the regional government has launched a pre-emergency plan.

The Murcia government has produced the the following tips:

-Stay as long as possible in cool places

-Eat light meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables

-It is advisable not to abuse drinks that contain caffeine, alcohol or sugar

-Sports activity should be relegated to the first or last hours of the day.

Government health experts said: “It is essential to avoid heat stroke and other consequences such as dermatitis or burns, sunstroke, cramps or heat syncope.”

“In some cases they can generate more serious situations that can be fatal or leave significant sequelae.”

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