Exceptionally early heat wave shatters records and brings deaths in Europe
An unusually early heat wave is sweeping across parts of Western Europe, breaking temperature records and raising serious health and safety concerns in countries like the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and Italy.
In the U.K., temperatures reached 95.2°F (35.1°C) at Kew Gardens on Tuesday, according to the country’s Met Office weather service. This broke a record that had stood for more than 100 years and surpassed the previous day’s record as well. The earlier benchmark of 91.4°F was first set in 1922.
London also experienced a rare “tropical night,” meaning temperatures stayed above 68°F (20°C) overnight, making conditions especially uncomfortable for residents.
The extreme heat has also affected France, where temperatures climbed to nearly 97°F (36°C) in the southwest. Weather officials said a “heat dome” — a high-pressure system trapping hot air over the region — is pushing temperatures far above normal for May.
Experts say climate change is making heat waves more frequent, more intense, and more dangerous. Climate scientist Peter Thorne said the record-breaking temperatures in Britain and France are “mind-boggling” and linked them to greenhouse gas emissions caused by human activity.
The hot weather has already led to tragic incidents. Authorities in the U.K. reported several drownings, including four teenagers who died in lakes and reservoirs while trying to cool off. A 60-year-old man also died in the sea off southwest England.
In France, officials said at least seven deaths may be connected to the heat, including five drownings and two deaths during sports activities. Safety concerns have increased because the heat wave arrived before many beaches officially began summer lifeguard services.
On France’s Atlantic coast, dangerous ocean currents led to multiple rescue operations and drowning incidents. Local officials urged people to be extra careful near the water.
The heat has spread further south as well. In Spain, cities like Seville saw temperatures hit 100°F (38°C), with many areas experiencing temperatures much higher than normal for May. Meanwhile, Rome was expected to reach around 89°F (32°C).
The U.K. Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat alert across large parts of the country through Thursday. Officials warned that older adults and vulnerable people face the highest risk during the hottest hours of the day. Since many homes and public buildings in Britain lack air conditioning, the heat can become especially difficult to manage.
Scientists continue to warn that unusual and extreme weather events are becoming more common as the planet warms. This latest European heat wave is another reminder of how climate change is affecting daily life and public safety around the world.
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