This was a week of extremes in Valencia, violent storms early on followed by a red-alert heatwave and a wildfire that forced evacuations near Gátova. Alongside the weather chaos, the city pushed out practical news for residents: summer job openings, youth rental aid, festival safety measures, and next year's school calendar.
The Week's Biggest Stories
Violent storms knock down trees, disrupt transport
Valencia was hit by storms with wind gusts up to 149 km per hour, downing trees and damaging infrastructure across several municipalities. Emergency services carried out multiple interventions, and transport services saw disruptions as a result.
Sierra Calderona wildfire forces evacuation of 1,000
A wildfire in the Sierra Calderona area has burned more than 600 hectares, prompting the evacuation of around 1,000 people, mostly from Gátova. Emergency crews are still working to bring the fire under control.
Red heat alert as temperatures hit 44 degrees
AEMET issued red alerts for Valencia's coastal areas as temperatures were forecast to reach 44°C. Residents should expect an unusually intense spike in heat, on top of a week that already brought severe storms.
Tomatina tomato-throwing festival returns August 26
The famous Tomatina festival is back on August 26, drawing thousands of participants for the traditional tomato fight. Tickets cost €15, with packages that include food and drinks also available.
Over 3,000 summer jobs open through Labora
Valencia's public employment service Labora is advertising more than 3,000 summer job openings, concentrated in hospitality and tourism. Many roles are aimed at people looking for a first job or some seasonal work experience.
New €30 million rental aid scheme for young people
The Generalitat has launched the Bono Alquiler Joven 2026, a €30 million programme to help young Valencians with housing costs. Eligible applicants can receive €250 a month for up to two years.
2026-2027 school calendar includes full Fallas week off
Valencia's school calendar for the coming year has been published, with a full week off during Fallas among the key breaks. Families with children in local schools should take note of the dates for planning trips and work schedules.
Drug detection kits distributed at summer festivals
Valencia handed out 15,000 drug detection bracelets and 5,000 mobile testing pads at festivals this summer as part of an effort to prevent chemical submission incidents. The initiative is aimed at improving safety for people out at nightlife and festival events.
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What's On in Valencia This Week
09:30 · Catedral de Valencia
22:30 · Palau de la Música, Valencia
11:45 · Buñol, Valencia
19:30 · Barrio Moratall, La Pobla de Farnals
Observatori del Canvi Climàtic, Valencia · Free (registration required)
These are 5 picks from the 50+ events we are tracking in Valencia this week, and new ones are added every day. Pro members get the full calendar in our app; the free daily email flags the highlights.
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