An intense heat wave has engulfed Europe, pushing temperatures to unprecedented levels and triggering health alerts and wildfire warnings across various nations, notably France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece. Meteorologists forecast that the oppressive heat will linger into the following week with no significant overnight respite.
In Spain, temperatures soared to a staggering 114.8 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius) in El Granado, marking a potential record for June pending validation from Spain’s state meteorological agency, AEMET. This high temperature surpasses the previous June record set 60 years ago in Seville. AEMET has issued warnings that the brutal heat wave will continue at least into midweek, with daytime temperatures widely exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit and peaking over 104 degrees along the Mediterranean coast and the southeastern highlands. Nighttime lows are expected to remain unusually warm, not dropping below 68 degrees.
As the heat intensifies, Spain’s Ministry of Health has declared red “high risk” alerts in extensive areas in the north and west of the country through Monday. Officials are urging the public to prioritize hydration, avoid exposure during peak sun hours, and watch over vulnerable populations, including the elderly, pregnant individuals, children, outdoor workers, and those with chronic health conditions.
