Europe is experiencing an unusual heat wave that has set temperature records, notably in the United Kingdom. On Monday, government warnings were issued after deaths were reported at sporting events in France.

In France, Marina Ferrari, the sports minister, expressed condolences to the family of a runner who died during a Paris race on Sunday. The 53-year-old man had a heart attack in the 20th arrondissement, and attempts by firefighters to revive him were unsuccessful, as reported by Le Parisien. While the exact cause of his death remains unclear, heat may have played a role.

Ferrari emphasized the risks associated with sporting activities during extreme heat. “The events that occurred today during running races remind us that practicing sports in extreme heat requires absolute vigilance,” she said, expressing sympathy for the deceased runner’s family and others requiring emergency medical help.

In Lyon, the local outlet Actu Lyon reported the death of a woman from heat stroke during another sports event on the same day.

The national weather service, Meteo France, noted record-breaking May temperatures surpassing 30°C (86°F) across many areas, with the heat expected to persist into the week.

The United Kingdom also recorded its hottest May temperature on Monday. The temperature reached 33.5°C (92.3°F) at London’s Heathrow Airport, surpassing the previous record of 32.8°C (91.4°F) set in 1922 and matched in 1944. Residents and tourists sought respite in beaches and parks as a heat wave was declared in several regions.

The U.K. Health Security Agency issued its first amber health alert of the year, cautioning about an increase in deaths, especially among the elderly, during peak heat hours.

Such extreme weather events, occurring more frequently as global temperatures rise, have led experts to warn of greater risks to people. Unprecedented and hazardous weather conditions in unexpected times and places are endangering more lives.