Millions across Europe are enduring extreme temperatures as a blistering heat wave sweeps across the continent. France has been hardest hit, with 40 drownings recorded last week as people seek refuge from the heat. France’s Meteo France has issued a red heat wave alert for 54 departments, which comprises about half the country, signaling severe conditions.
Temperatures have remained sweltering throughout the day and night, with projections indicating the next five years may break further heat records. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu highlighted that the majority of the drowning victims were young individuals.
In France, public services are heavily impacted due to the lack of widespread air conditioning. Schools, transport, and events have been disrupted as establishments adapt to high temperatures. The Eiffel Tower is closing early, as is the Louvre museum, with operations adjusted to manage indoor heat accumulation.
The Louvre stated that although parts of its historic building are naturally resilient, the museum isn’t fully equipped to combat climate change impacts.
The extreme weather is expected to persist until week’s end, with highs around 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several locations. Meteo France warns of potential record-setting temperatures.
Across the continent, the heat wave has affected Italy, Spain, and Britain. Tourists in Rome resorted to umbrellas to shield themselves from the intense sun at sites like the Spanish Steps. Comparing this event with the August 2003 heat wave, temperatures are exceptionally early and intense.
Europe is warming rapidly, with temperatures rising twice the global average since the 1980s. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reports over 200,000 heat-related deaths across Europe in the past four years, most of which could have been avoided. Health risks include heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Continuing Heat in Britain and Spain
In Britain, schools closed early and trains experienced disruptions due to the Met Office’s extreme heat warning, with predictions suggesting record-breaking June temperatures. Southern England expects temperatures of 37 degrees C (98.6 F), while southeast Wales could reach 35 C (95 F). Relief is anticipated by Friday.
Spain’s heat wave affects various regions, with the national weather service Aemet issuing red alerts across Andalusia and warnings in Cantabria and the Basque Country. Aemet meteorologist Rubén del Campo pointed out the increasing frequency and severity of heat waves due to climate change.
Del Campo noted that half of Spain’s June heat waves since 1975 have occurred since 2015, indicating rising temperatures due to climate change effects.
EU monitoring agency Copernicus documented 2024 as Europe’s hottest year on record, marking considerable heat stress days exacerbated by climate change.
The Associated Press journalists Sylvia Hui in London and Joseph Wilson in Barcelona contributed to this report. Support trusted journalism to ensure free press remains vital to democracy.