Deadly Heatwave Sweeps Across Europe, Triggering Red Alerts and Transport Disruptions

A severe heatwave driven by an Omega block weather pattern is affecting much of Europe, leading to record-breaking temperatures and multiple fatalities. Authorities have issued red alerts across several nations to manage public safety.

Key points

• French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu reported 40 drownings in France since June 18 as residents sought relief in unauthorized water areas.
• France has closed over 1,350 schools, while Belgium relocated final exams to a church due to excessive classroom temperatures.
• The UK Met Office issued a rare red extreme heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach 39 degrees Celsius.
• A nuclear reactor at the Golfech plant in France was shut down after cooling water from the Garonne river exceeded safe temperature limits.
• Italy's health ministry declared red heatwave alerts for 15 cities, including Rome and Milan, advising residents to stay indoors.

Why it matters

The heatwave highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Europe, which is warming at twice the global average rate.