A severe early summer heatwave has swept across Europe, claiming at least eight lives and forcing emergency measures in several countries.
Spain, France, and Italy reported heat-related deaths, while authorities across the continent issued red alerts, battled wildfires, and even shut down power reactors.
Spain saw four casualties, including two people who died in a massive wildfire in Catalonia and two more in the regions of Extremadura and Cordoba. France reported two heat-linked deaths and 300 hospitalizations, while in Italy, two elderly men collapsed on a beach in Sardinia due to extreme temperatures, according to local media.
Governments in Italy, France, and Germany issued heat and storm warnings, with Italy placing 18 cities under red alert. In Germany, some areas were expected to hit 40°C, the country’s hottest day this year. Meanwhile, Switzerland shut one reactor and reduced output at another in the Beznau nuclear plant because high river temperatures affected the cooling process.
The intense heat has sparked fires in Turkey and Eastern Germany, while violent storms in France triggered mudslides and disrupted rail links between Paris and Milan. Popular tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and Brussels’ Atomium also closed their top floors early as safety precautions.
Scientists warn that this heatwave is part of a growing climate crisis worsened by fossil fuel emissions, deforestation, and global warming. Experts say rising sea temperatures helped form a “heat dome” that trapped hot air across Europe, raising temperatures by up to 10°C above normal.
UN officials and climate researchers stressed the urgent need to adapt. “Extreme heat is testing our resilience and putting the health and lives of millions at risk,” said Inger Andersen from the United Nations Environment Programme. Economic damage is also rising, with businesses like Greggs in the UK reporting reduced profits as fewer customers venture out in the heat.
