Europe Braces for Heatwave: Temperatures Soar to 42°C Amid Climate Crisis
As the summer heat kicks in, authorities across Europe are sounding the alarm as temperatures surge to a staggering 42°C (107.6°F). The continent, recognized as one of the fastest-warming regions, is grappling with the alarming impacts of climate change.
Spain’s state meteorological office, Aemet, has issued a special heat warning, predicting that certain southern areas could experience extreme temperatures in the coming days. "We anticipate very high and persistent temperatures during both day and night, which could be hazardous for those who are exposed or particularly vulnerable," Aemet stated.
In Madrid, the health ministry has urged residents to take precautions against the heat, advising them to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and watch over vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health issues.
Portugal is also on high alert, with two-thirds of the country facing extreme heat and wildfire risks. Lisbon is expected to reach similar highs of 42°C on Sunday. Meanwhile, in Marseille, France’s second-largest city, temperatures are nearing 40°C, prompting local authorities to offer free access to public swimming pools to help residents cope with the sweltering Mediterranean heat.
In Italy, cities like Naples and Palermo are bracing for temperatures around 39°C. To protect their citizens, regions including Sicily and Liguria have implemented bans on outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day. Trade unions in Italy are advocating for these measures to be expanded to additional areas.
Even in Venice, where guests of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sánchez, are celebrating a lavish wedding, the heat is palpable. Local student Sriane Mina shared, “I try not to think about it, but I drink a lot of water and keep moving to avoid sunstroke,” highlighting the discomfort many are experiencing.
As Greece hits near 40°C, a large wildfire erupted south of Athens, prompting evacuation orders and the closure of key coastal roads leading to the historic Temple of Poseidon, a popular tourist attraction.
This intense heatwave follows a trend of broken temperature records, including the hottest March on record in Europe, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. Scientists warn that as global temperatures continue to rise, extreme weather events—including hurricanes, droughts, floods, and heatwaves—are becoming increasingly frequent and severe.
Last year marked the hottest year on record, resulting in global disasters that incurred costs exceeding $300 billion (£219 billion). A study published in Lancet Public Health indicated that heat-related deaths in Europe could triple by the century’s end, with southern countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain being disproportionately affected.
Currently, heat-related fatalities in Europe are estimated at 44,000 annually. If temperatures continue to rise by 3°C above preindustrial levels, this number could escalate to 129,000 deaths each year. Even with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C, the total annual death toll from extreme temperatures in Europe may increase from 407,000 to 450,000 by 2100.
As Europe faces this escalating climate crisis, staying informed and taking necessary precautions is more crucial than ever.
