Extreme heat grips Europe

Unprecedented temperatures challenge health systems and fuel wildfires across France Italy Spain and Croatia

Europe Endures Record Heat as Wildfires Spread

Extreme heat is breaking temperature records across Europe with the south west of France showing 40C in many stations and readings about 12C above long term norms. In Croatia temperatures reached 39.5C in Sibenik and 38.9C in Dubrovnik as wildfires burned along coasts and spread to nearby countries. Across Europe heat is tied to widespread drought and dry vegetation, while a separate surge of heat in Iraq brought a nationwide blackout. Scientists note the Arctic and Nordic regions have also seen unusual warmth this month.

In Italy 16 of 27 major cities issued red heat alerts and a four year old died of heat related illness while Spain faced a fatal wildfire burning much of a person's body. In France more than a third of weather stations reported temperatures above 40C and more heat is expected as the week continues.

Experts say the heat wave is a clear signal of climate change and highlights how risks shift across regions. The combination of high temperatures and dry vegetation creates a dangerous mix that fuels fires and strains health systems. The long duration and wide geographic reach mean local responses must be coordinated across borders, with heat warnings cooling centers and energy demand plans becoming standard. The costs go beyond immediate losses and include long term health impacts and economic disruption, which demands planning now.

Highlights

The heat story is only beginning and its answers lie in planning and cooperation