Severe Heatwave Triggers Red Alerts Across Western and Central Europe

A severe, long-lasting heatwave driven by hot air from the Sahara is impacting Western and Central Europe, with record-breaking temperatures exceeding 40C in several regions.

Key points

• France has issued its highest-level red heat alert, resulting in school closures and the cancellation of some train services.
• The UK Met Office issued rare red warnings for extreme heat in parts of England and Wales, with temperatures expected to reach 40C.
• Authorities in Italy have placed 12 cities under red alert, while Spain reports temperatures significantly above seasonal averages.
• The heatwave has been linked to multiple fatalities, including drowning incidents and the death of two children in a hot car in France.

Why it matters

The extreme heatwave poses significant risks to public health and infrastructure, with scientists noting that such events are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming.