Western Europe is suffering from an unseasonal and record-breaking heatwave as temperatures soared above normal May averages across parts of the continent on Tuesday.
Weather agencies reported that the rising temperature was attributed to a “heat dome” carrying warm air from northern Africa, which became trapped under a high-pressure system over Western Europe.
Reuters reported that at least seven people in France died directly or indirectly due to the extreme weather. Authorities across several European nations have reportedly issued warnings and restrictions.
The high temperature, reaching up to 36°C on Tuesday, is likely to continue through Wednesday and Thursday.
According to French Junior Energy Minister Maud Bregeon, the death toll from the heatwave included five who drowned in lakes, rivers, and beaches, while seeking relief from the high temperatures.
Authorities have directed local administrations to implement protective measures during sporting events.
Spectators and players suffered through difficult conditions at Roland Garros in Paris as temperatures rose to 33°C.
French authorities reported that a man died during a 10km race in Paris on Sunday, while 10 were hospitalised in critical condition after another race near the city.
An orange-level heat warning was issued in most of Brittany on Tuesday.
Chloe Voisin, a student, told AFP in Bordeaux, “It’s a bit worrying because it’s not really normal at this time of year, but unfortunately I think this is going to become the norm in France.”
The Met Office in Britain recorded an all-time May high of 34.8°C at Kew Gardens in southwest London on Monday. Meteorologist Greg Dewhurst said the situation was “a good indication of climate change in action” and predicted such temperatures were likely to become “the new norm”.
The Met Office posted on X, “This heat would be exceptional in the UK even in mid-summer, let alone May.”
The temperatures in London during this time of the year usually averaged around 17°C or 18°C.
Spain’s meteorological agency Aemet predicted temperatures between 36°C and 38°C while Lazio authorities in Italy imposed restrictions on outdoor work between 12.30 pm and 4 pm in sectors such as farming, construction, and logistics.
