Despite expectations for cooler weather, a fierce heatwave continues to wreak havoc across Europe, with Spain currently bearing the brunt of this intense heat. Authorities have issued health warnings as temperatures soar, particularly in the southern region of Spain. An astonishing 46C was recorded on Saturday in El Granado, marking a new record for June set by Spain’s national meteorological agency. This month is poised to become the hottest June in recorded history.
The heatwave is not limited to Spain; red heat warnings have been issued in several countries including Portugal, Italy, and Croatia. Additionally, amber warnings are prevalent across France, Belgium, Austria, and parts of the Balkans. Tragically, a heat-related incident resulted in the death of a road sweeper in Barcelona, prompting an investigation by local authorities.
In Italy, emergency departments are facing an increase in heat-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those experiencing homelessness. Hospitals like Naples' Ospedale dei Colli are establishing expedited treatment protocols for heatstroke victims, including cold water immersion. To combat the extreme heat, cities such as Bologna have set up climate shelters equipped with air conditioning, and the city of Rome has opened swimming pools to senior citizens free of charge.
In Portugal, pharmacists are urging the public to remain indoors during peak sun hours, yet heatstroke incidents continue to be reported. Countries across the western Balkans are also experiencing unprecedented heat, with Serbia tying its all-time high temperature, and Slovenia identifying its hottest June temperature on record.
Forecasts indicate that the hot weather is expected to persist into the upcoming week, with rising temperatures projected across France, Germany, Italy, and the UK. Yellow and amber weather alerts are now in effect for parts of England, anticipating London temperatures to climb to 35C on Monday.
While linking individual weather events to climate change is complex, scientists from World Weather Attribution conclude that instances of extreme heat are notably increasing. They report that heatwaves characterized by multiple consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 28C are now ten times more common than during pre-industrial times. This trend underscores the growing seriousness of climate-related weather phenomena throughout Europe and beyond.
The heatwave is not limited to Spain; red heat warnings have been issued in several countries including Portugal, Italy, and Croatia. Additionally, amber warnings are prevalent across France, Belgium, Austria, and parts of the Balkans. Tragically, a heat-related incident resulted in the death of a road sweeper in Barcelona, prompting an investigation by local authorities.
In Italy, emergency departments are facing an increase in heat-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those experiencing homelessness. Hospitals like Naples' Ospedale dei Colli are establishing expedited treatment protocols for heatstroke victims, including cold water immersion. To combat the extreme heat, cities such as Bologna have set up climate shelters equipped with air conditioning, and the city of Rome has opened swimming pools to senior citizens free of charge.
In Portugal, pharmacists are urging the public to remain indoors during peak sun hours, yet heatstroke incidents continue to be reported. Countries across the western Balkans are also experiencing unprecedented heat, with Serbia tying its all-time high temperature, and Slovenia identifying its hottest June temperature on record.
Forecasts indicate that the hot weather is expected to persist into the upcoming week, with rising temperatures projected across France, Germany, Italy, and the UK. Yellow and amber weather alerts are now in effect for parts of England, anticipating London temperatures to climb to 35C on Monday.
While linking individual weather events to climate change is complex, scientists from World Weather Attribution conclude that instances of extreme heat are notably increasing. They report that heatwaves characterized by multiple consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 28C are now ten times more common than during pre-industrial times. This trend underscores the growing seriousness of climate-related weather phenomena throughout Europe and beyond.
