Europe Grapples with Unprecedented Heatwave as Records Shatter Across Continent
Europe Grapples with Unprecedented Heatwave as Records Shatter Across Continent
An extreme and unprecedented heatwave continues to grip Southern Europe, with temperatures soaring to historic highs and triggering widespread alerts. Spain has recorded punishing highs of 46C (114.8F), while nearly all of mainland France remains under high heat warnings, prompting urgent action from authorities.
This severe heat, exacerbated by global warming, has scorched Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and Greece for several days, marking the region’s first major heatwave of the summer. Health warnings are in effect across multiple nations, with hospital admissions in some Italian regions, such as Tuscany, reportedly up by 20%. Firefighters are battling numerous blazes, leading to the evacuation of over 50,000 people from their homes in Turkey due to forest fires.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking on Monday, underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “Extreme heat is no longer a rare event – it has become the new normal.” Forecasts indicate that Spanish cities like Seville will endure temperatures above 40C for the next three days, with uncomfortable night-time lows posing significant health risks.
In France, Météo-France has placed 88% of administrative areas under the second-highest orange heat alerts, an unprecedented move. The government has advised businesses to adjust working hours and 200 public schools faced partial or total closure. Spain set a new June temperature record of 46C on Saturday, with Sunday marking the hottest June 29th on record since 1950. The intense heat is expected to persist until Thursday.
The heatwave’s effects are extending northward, with Germany experiencing temperatures approaching 40C, increasing wildfire risks and prompting water restrictions. The UK is also bracing for highs of 34C, with warnings issued for outdoor workers and attendees of major events. Experts highlight the heightened vulnerability of urban populations due to heat absorption by concrete and asphalt.
Relief organizations, including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, are actively involved, distributing water and checking on vulnerable individuals. Scientists attribute the extreme temperatures to a heat dome trapping hot air, compounded by an ongoing marine heatwave in the Mediterranean, which is 5C hotter than normal. This phenomenon underscores the escalating impact of climate change, making such heatwaves more intense and frequent.
Health officials universally advise the public to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, wear loose clothing, and regularly check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, as extreme heat significantly contributes to global mortality.
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