A blistering heatwave has engulfed large parts of Europe, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in several countries, prompting health warnings, work restrictions, and wildfire alerts across the continent. Meteorologists are describing this as one of the most intense early summer heatwaves on record, and experts link its frequency and severity to climate change.
Spain Sets New June Heat Record
Spain continues to bear the brunt of the extreme heat, with the town of El Granado near the Portuguese border recording a sweltering 46°C — a new national high for the month of June. This breaks the previous record of 45.2°C set in Seville back in 1965. The national meteorological agency, AEMET, warned that this June could go down as the hottest ever in the country, as cities like Seville and Córdoba report temperatures nearing 42°C.
The agency also highlighted a troubling trend: while only two heatwaves were recorded in the month of June between 1975 and 2000, that number has risen to nine since the turn of the century — a pattern scientists attribute to accelerating climate change.
Italy Issues Red Alerts as Cities Swelter
Italy is also facing oppressive heat, with the Health Ministry issuing red alerts in 21 cities, including major urban centers like Rome, Milan, and Naples. Authorities in several regions — including Lazio, Tuscany, Calabria, Puglia, and Umbria — are considering limiting outdoor work during peak daytime hours to protect laborers from heat-related illnesses.
Tourists in Rome have been spotted crowding around fountains and shaded areas near landmarks such as the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, using umbrellas and public water sources to stay cool.
Wildfire Warnings in Greece and France
Greece and France are also battling the heat, with both countries issuing fresh wildfire warnings. In France’s Corbières region, firefighters were deployed to contain early summer blazes that led to evacuations as temperatures climbed to nearly 41°C in Grospierres. Greek officials issued similar alerts as dry conditions and strong winds increase the risk of fires.
United Kingdom Braces for Scorching Start to Wimbledon
The United Kingdom isn’t escaping the heat either. London is forecast to reach up to 35°C on Monday, potentially marking the hottest day of the year. The Wimbledon tennis tournament is expected to kick off under record-breaking conditions, possibly exceeding the previous opening day high of 29.3°C set in 2001. The all-time hottest day at Wimbledon remains 35.7°C, recorded in July 2015.
Germany and Portugal Feel the Heat
In Germany, the national weather service has issued warnings for southern and western areas, where temperatures are expected to peak around 39°C midweek. Portugal has also seen a sharp rise in temperatures, with both locals and tourists seeking refuge from the blistering sun.
Climate Change Behind Escalating Heat
Meteorologists warn that heatwaves in Europe are not only becoming more intense but are also arriving earlier in the season. Experts say that the extreme temperatures, which were once typical of August, are now appearing as early as May — a shift attributed to human-driven global warming.
In France, environmental scientists have raised concerns over the long-term impact of recurring heat events on biodiversity, with ecosystems increasingly strained by rising temperatures and prolonged dry spells.
As the continent confronts this relentless wave of heat, authorities continue to urge the public to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak hours, and take precautions to minimize the risk of heat-related health issues and wildfires.