Extreme heat is enveloping Europe, with millions affected by dangerously high temperatures that far surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit (over 40 degrees Celsius). The ongoing heatwave is particularly severe in countries such as France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, with forecasts anticipating continued soaring temperatures in the coming days.
Countries under threat include:
- **Portugal**: The forecast predicts a staggering 111 degrees Fahrenheit (44 degrees Celsius) in Beja on Monday, as reported by the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere, a government research body.
- **Spain**: Spain's meteorological agency AEMET has proclaimed a "significant risk" of high temperatures, with some areas seeing readings of 108 degrees. A temperature of 114.8 degrees was registered in El Granado on Saturday, possibly setting a national record for June, pending verification.
- **France**: Météo-France has stated that “scorching temperatures” will prevail, with forecasts indicating persistent highs of around 104 degrees for numerous regions, peaking near 105 degrees throughout the week.
- **Italy**: Sixteen cities received the highest-level heat alerts on Monday, with even more expected to be added for Tuesday as the Ministry of Health responds to the crisis.
- **Britain**: Experiencing its second official heat wave this year, the UK is bracing for temperatures to soar to 93 degrees on Monday, coinciding with the return of festival-goers from Glastonbury and tennis fans attending Wimbledon. The challenge is intensified in a nation where air conditioning is uncommon in homes.
This extreme heat is notably unusual for many of these regions. Rome typically records average summer highs of 86 degrees, yet temperatures soared to close to 104 on Sunday, highlighting a troubling trend as climate change causes what was once rare to become more commonplace.
To combat the oppressive heat, experts provide several safety recommendations:
- Consider using water to cool down if air conditioning isn't available.
- Stay hydrated and apply damp towels or mist on the skin to reduce body temperature.
- Block sunlight from entering homes by closing curtains or shades during peak hours and leave windows open at night to facilitate cooling.
- Engage in minimal outdoor exercise and avoid using stoves.
- Monitor for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can escalate rapidly without intervention.
- Ensure pets and children remain cool and hydrated.
The intense heatwave serves as a vital reminder of the changing climate and its effects on everyday lives, pushing the need for adaptive strategies and community awareness regarding heat safety measures.
