For the second time this year, western and central Europe are experiencing extended extreme heat, with record-breaking June temperatures forecasted. The heat wave results from a strong high-pressure area over continental Europe, commonly called a ‘heat dome.’

Understanding Heat Domes

A heat dome is a persistent high-pressure zone in the atmosphere, trapping heat in a region for days or longer. These phenomena occur globally.

The Royal Meteorological Society in Reading, England, likens these systems to a pot lid, preventing warm air near the Earth’s surface from rising and forming clouds. Consequentially, increased sunshine heats the ground continuously.

Impact Across Europe

France’s weather agency, Météo-France, notes that these systems can block or redirect weather fronts, resulting in fewer clouds and limited rainfall.

In Spain, a woman used an umbrella for sun protection during the country’s first official heat wave.