Proposal for the establishment of new maximum temperature warning areas in the Region of Murcia (Spain)
Main Article Content
Abstract
One of the principal challenges facing meteorological warnings in Spain is their lack of adaptability to the unique climatic and demographic characteristics of each region. This often results in the establishment of thresholds and warning zones that may not be entirely suitable for local conditions. In this study, we utilize maximum temperatures as a case study to develop a novel methodology aimed at addressing these issues specifically in the Region of Murcia.We collected data on daily maximum temperatures from 84 weather stations during the meteorological summer in the period 2000 - 2019. Utilizing this dataset, we calculated the 95th, 97th, and 99th percentiles for each station and generated three interpolated maps using universal kriging techniques. Warning zones were then delineated through overlap analysis, and maximum temperature thresholds were established based on three levels of risk.This methodological approach has resulted in the identification of 19 meteorological warning zones, delineated based on the aggregation of postcode polygons. This zoning strategy facilitates a more tailored adaptation of meteorological warnings to the local terrain and demographics, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of population protection and pre-emergency management.