Why It’s Been So Hard to Sleep in Lanzarote This Week – The Science Behind the Heat
If you’ve found yourself tossing and turning during the recent Lanzarote heatwave, you’re certainly not alone. Across the island, many residents and holidaymakers have been struggling to sleep as overnight temperatures have remained unusually high.
The reason is a weather phenomenon known as tropical nights – and in some areas, even torrid nights.
What is a Tropical Night?
A tropical night occurs when the temperature doesn’t fall below 20°C overnight. Normally, cooler nighttime temperatures allow our bodies and homes to cool down after a hot day.
During the current heatwave affecting Lanzarote and the Canary Islands, many parts of the island have experienced several consecutive tropical nights, while some locations have even recorded torrid nights, where temperatures stay above 25°C throughout the night.
Why Does It Feel Even Hotter?
Temperature isn’t the only factor affecting comfort at night.
Humidity plays a major role in how hot we feel. When humidity is high, sweat evaporates more slowly, making it harder for the body to cool itself naturally. This can leave bedrooms feeling warm, stuffy and uncomfortable, even if the thermometer isn’t showing extreme temperatures.
Many homes and apartments in Lanzarote are also designed to retain warmth during the cooler winter months rather than release heat during prolonged summer heatwaves. After several days of high daytime temperatures, walls, roofs and concrete continue radiating stored heat well into the night.
Recent Nighttime Temperatures Across Lanzarote
According to recent meteorological observations, overnight temperatures across the island have remained exceptionally warm.
Examples include:
- Playa Blanca – around 23.8°C
- Arrecife – approximately 23.3°C
- Lanzarote Airport – around 23.2°C
- La Graciosa – above 23°C
- Haría – around 21.2°C
- Tías and Tinajo – close to 20°C
Earlier this week, Haría also experienced a torrid night, with temperatures remaining above 25°C, making sleeping particularly difficult.
Why Sleeping in the Heat Is Difficult
Medical experts explain that our bodies naturally lower their core temperature before we fall asleep.
When overnight temperatures stay high, this cooling process becomes much harder, leading to:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- More frequent waking during the night
- Poorer quality sleep
- Increased tiredness during the day
Extended periods of hot nights can also place extra strain on older adults, young children and people with certain health conditions.
Tips for Sleeping Better During a Lanzarote Heatwave
If you’re visiting Lanzarote or live on the island, these simple measures can help:
- Keep blinds and curtains closed during the day.
- Open windows once temperatures begin to fall in the evening.
- Use a fan to improve airflow.
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
- Choose lightweight cotton bedding.
- Avoid large meals and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Take a cool (not icy) shower before bed.
Will the Warm Nights Continue?
Forecasts suggest overnight temperatures are likely to remain between 21°C and 23°C over the next few nights, meaning more tropical nights are possible until cooler Atlantic air returns to the Canary Islands.
