Europe is experiencing a severe and potentially deadly heatwave, with temperatures rising above 35°C across multiple countries and affecting an estimated 101 million people. Forecasts suggest more than 380 million people are exposed to temperatures exceeding 30°C, as much of the continent endures extreme summer heat.
France, Spain, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom are among the worst affected, with authorities reporting heat-related deaths, including children, in France and Spain. In Spain alone, more than 200 deaths between Sunday and Wednesday have been linked to the extreme temperatures by the country’s monitoring systems.
Scientists have attributed the escalating intensity of heatwaves to human-driven climate change, warning that rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. UN climate officials have described the situation as a direct consequence of continued fossil fuel emissions.
Most of mainland France remains under extreme heat alerts, with approximately 63 million people exposed to temperatures above 30°C. Germany is expected to see around 70 million people affected, while Italy faces 48 million and the UK around 38 million.
Public services and infrastructure have struggled to cope, with some regions reporting record-breaking night-time temperatures. In France, authorities recorded the hottest June night since records began in 1947. In the UK, temperatures reached up to 36°C in some areas, with further peaks forecast.
In Paris, residents have sought relief outdoors, sleeping in parks and gathering near waterways, while some cities have introduced emergency cooling measures. However, critics in cities such as Brussels have highlighted a lack of public swimming facilities, making it difficult for residents to escape the heat.
The impact on vulnerable groups has been severe, particularly the elderly and those in care facilities. Health workers have warned of increased risks of dehydration and heatstroke as temperatures continue to remain high.
While conditions are expected to ease in western Europe from Friday, meteorologists warn that eastern regions may continue to face dangerous temperatures into the weekend.