A major heatwave is affecting parts of Western Europe, with unusually high temperatures for May recorded across the United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Spain and Italy.
Countries including United Kingdom, France and Ireland have seen temperatures rise above seasonal norms, driven by hot air masses from North Africa trapped under a strong high-pressure system.
Record temperatures and heat-related deaths in France
In France, authorities reported seven heat-related deaths, including at least five drownings linked to the extreme temperatures, according to government spokesperson Maud Bregeon.
The country also recorded its hottest May day on record, with the national meteorological service Météo-France confirming multiple temperature records across several regions.
Local highs reached 34.3C in Nantes and 34.7C in Bergerac, as coastal and inland areas experienced widespread heat stress.
UK and Ireland break May records
The United Kingdom also recorded historic temperatures, with 34.8C measured at Kew Gardens in London – the highest May temperature ever recorded in the country.
The Met Office said the heat was “unusual even in summer conditions” and warned temperatures would remain high before easing later in the week.
In Ireland, temperatures reached 28.8C in the south, also considered exceptional for the time of year.
Heat measures across Europe
In Italy, authorities in the Lazio region introduced restrictions on outdoor work during peak afternoon hours between 12:30 and 16:00, due to dangerous heat exposure risks.
Meanwhile, Spain is expected to experience “tropical nights” in the southwest, with temperatures forecast to reach 36–38C later this week.
Climate scientists warn of worsening extremes
Meteorologists attribute the heatwave to a strong anticyclone trapping hot air over Europe, while scientists warn that climate change is intensifying extreme weather events.
A report from the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization found that Europe is warming at twice the global average rate, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and severe across most of the continent.
Heatwave expected to continue
The current heatwave across Europe is expected to persist through the week in several regions before temperatures gradually ease in some areas toward the weekend.
Authorities across affected countries continue to issue warnings as health risks remain high, particularly for vulnerable populations.
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