Western Europe is grappling with an unusually severe heatwave as summer approaches, with France, Spain, and the United Kingdom experiencing record-breaking high temperatures for the month of May. In France, over 350 towns have reported their highest-ever May temperatures, predominantly in the western parts of the country. The most extreme heat was recorded at 37.1°C in the south-western region of Landes.
The United Kingdom has also shattered its previous national temperature record for May, with Kew Gardens in London registering a scorching 34.8°C. Weather authorities have noted that temperatures across several European regions are currently 12°C to 13°C higher than the seasonal averages. This heatwave is anticipated to persist for several more days, with forecasts suggesting that temperatures in certain areas of Spain could soar to 40°C by the end of the week.
In France, the intense heat is attributed to a heat dome effect, where hot air from Morocco is trapped under a robust high-pressure system, according to meteorological experts. This phenomenon is becoming more common and intense due to climate change, prompting concerns from French authorities. As a result, thirty-one French departments have been placed under high-temperature alerts, including some under the second-highest warning level. Notably, this is the first instance of France’s national heat warning system being activated in May since its establishment in 2004.
Temperatures have soared past 35°C in several French locations, with Paris nearing 33°C. The extreme conditions have led to a tragic incident during a 10-kilometre race near Paris, where a participant suffered a fatal heart attack. Several other participants were hospitalized in critical condition due to the heat. Meanwhile, in Spain, temperatures have already reached 38°C in the southern regions, with further increases expected throughout the week. Meteorologists caution that many areas could experience “tropical nights,” where temperatures do not drop below 20°C even after the sun sets.
Experts emphasize that heatwaves in Europe are starting earlier in the year and are occurring with increasing frequency, attributing these patterns to the ongoing impacts of long-term climate change. The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the challenges posed by a warming planet.