Sevilla is gearing up for a scorching Feria de Abril as temperatures are forecast to reach as high as 37C.

It comes as tens of thousands prepare to descend on the city from Monday April 20 for the traditional noche del pescaito through to the fireworks finale on Sunday 26.

The temperature spike is being driven by a high-pressure system combined with a ridge of warm air settling over the Iberian Peninsula.

With just days to go before the Feria begins, thermometers are already climbing well above seasonal norms, with conditions increasingly resembling early summer rather than mid-April.

According to state weather agency Aemet, this pattern will hold firm through the preferia and into the opening days of the festival.

Friday April 17 is expected to see highs of 32C, followed by 33C on Saturday and 32C on Sunday, with relatively cool nights hovering around 14C.

The official start on Monday will bring another push upwards, with highs again hitting 33C.

But the real peak is expected on Tuesday April 21, which is forecast to be the hottest day of the week – with temperatures soaring to 37C, making it the most intense day of the Feria.

While there may be a slight dip midweek, conditions will remain uncomfortably hot.

Wednesday is expected to see highs of around 34C, before another surge on Thursday pushes temperatures back up to 36C. Night-time temperatures will also begin to climb, offering less relief after dark.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.