PARIS (VGMG) — A severe heat wave has swept across Europe, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius in multiple countries including France, Spain, and Italy. The extreme weather has prompted authorities to issue their highest-level warnings and implement emergency measures to protect public health.
France has been particularly affected, with 35 departments under red-level heat alerts, covering more than one-third of the country. Approximately 53 million people in France have been placed under either red or orange weather warnings, according to Météo-France.
The French government convened crisis response meetings as temperatures climbed. Météo-France warned that the heat wave could reach levels comparable to the deadly events of 2003 and 2019. In Paris, the city government opened designated parks for 24-hour access to provide residents with additional “cool islands” (îlots de fraîcheur).
In Spain, most of the country is under heat warnings with temperatures expected to remain around 40 degrees Celsius. The Madrid city government temporarily closed public World Cup fan zones and outdoor screening areas due to the extreme conditions, prioritizing spectator safety.
Italy expanded its red-level heat warning to eight cities in the north and central regions, where temperatures commonly exceeded 30 degrees Celsius. Rome’s historic center became a test of endurance for tourists waiting in lines under the scorching sun.
Germany also issued heat warnings across nearly the entire country, with temperatures approaching 38 degrees Celsius. The German Meteorological Service (DWD) warned that the combination of high temperatures and humidity could trigger severe thunderstorms.
The World Health Organization’s European regional office stated that the unusually high temperatures across Europe this summer will significantly increase the risk of heatstroke and related health emergencies. Scientists have indicated that climate change is making European heat waves more frequent and intense.
Emergency services across the continent are on high alert. Some local governments in France have restricted large outdoor events and banned alcohol sales in public spaces to reduce the risk of dehydration and heat-related medical emergencies.