Extreme heat has engulfed Europe, with tens of millions of individuals in several countries warned to prepare for dangerously high temperatures. This severe heatwave, which spans across France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, is forecasted to persist throughout the week.
Portugal is grappling with predictions of temperatures soaring to a remarkable 111°F (44°C) in Beja on Monday, according to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere. Spain's national meteorological agency, AEMET, reported a "significant risk" of high temperatures ranging from 108°F to a potential national record high of 114.8°F recorded recently in El Granado.
France is also experiencing the brunt of the heat, with Météo-France warning of “scorching temperatures” expected to persist, with many regions anticipated to reach around 104°F (40°C) for consecutive days. Meanwhile, Italy has placed a total of sixteen cities on high alert due to extreme heat conditions, and the UK faces its second heatwave of 2025, with maxima projected to reach 93°F (34°C) as citizens flood back from concerts and sporting events.
This surge in temperatures is exceptionally rare for many regions, as meteorologists observe that the rising climate trend indicates that what used to be atypical weather patterns are increasingly becoming commonplace. The average summer highs in Rome are typically around 86°F, but recent readings have approached alarming levels close to 104°F.
Experts advise those affected by the heat to make use of cooling techniques, as air conditioning remains limited in many homes. Staying hydrated and using damp towels to cool the skin are recommended practices. Additionally, it's essential to remain vigilant against symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Protecting children and pets from heat is crucial, with advice to monitor their activity and keep them cool. As the continent continues to face significant climate impacts, the call for awareness and precaution cannot be overstated.
Portugal is grappling with predictions of temperatures soaring to a remarkable 111°F (44°C) in Beja on Monday, according to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere. Spain's national meteorological agency, AEMET, reported a "significant risk" of high temperatures ranging from 108°F to a potential national record high of 114.8°F recorded recently in El Granado.
France is also experiencing the brunt of the heat, with Météo-France warning of “scorching temperatures” expected to persist, with many regions anticipated to reach around 104°F (40°C) for consecutive days. Meanwhile, Italy has placed a total of sixteen cities on high alert due to extreme heat conditions, and the UK faces its second heatwave of 2025, with maxima projected to reach 93°F (34°C) as citizens flood back from concerts and sporting events.
This surge in temperatures is exceptionally rare for many regions, as meteorologists observe that the rising climate trend indicates that what used to be atypical weather patterns are increasingly becoming commonplace. The average summer highs in Rome are typically around 86°F, but recent readings have approached alarming levels close to 104°F.
Experts advise those affected by the heat to make use of cooling techniques, as air conditioning remains limited in many homes. Staying hydrated and using damp towels to cool the skin are recommended practices. Additionally, it's essential to remain vigilant against symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Protecting children and pets from heat is crucial, with advice to monitor their activity and keep them cool. As the continent continues to face significant climate impacts, the call for awareness and precaution cannot be overstated.
