Several European countries have issued health alerts as an intense heatwave pushes temperatures above 40°C, raising concerns over heat-related illnesses and straining infrastructure and public services.
Parts of France recorded temperatures as high as 44.3°C, while cities in Spain and Italy also experienced extreme conditions. Authorities across the continent have opened cooling centres, adjusted work schedules and issued advisories aimed at protecting vulnerable groups, including older adults, children and people with chronic illnesses.
The World Meteorological Organization warned that Europe, which is warming faster than the global average, is likely to experience more frequent and severe heatwaves. Health experts say prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, with older adults and outdoor workers particularly vulnerable.
The heatwave has also disrupted daily life, causing power outages, school closures and transport disruptions in some areas. Britain issued only its second extreme heat alert in history as temperatures approached record levels.
Scientists attributed the prolonged heat to an “Omega block” weather pattern, which traps hot air over the region and prevents cooler systems from moving in. As climate change intensifies, experts warn that extreme heat events are likely to become more frequent and severe
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