Extreme heat warnings have been issued in 26 EU countries due to abnormal heat
France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and other countries in Southern and Western Europe have been hit by one of the most intense heat waves on record.
Twenty-six European countries have issued warnings about dangerously high temperatures, which in some places are reaching +38°C…+44°C.
Meteorologists explain that a so-called “heat dome”—a high-pressure system that traps hot air over the regions—has formed over the continent. The situation is further exacerbated by air masses from the Sahara, which intensify the overheating effect.
Forecasters warn that the peak of the heat is expected on June 24, and the heat wave could be one of the longest in recent years.
In France, where warnings have been issued for more than half of the regions, hundreds of schools are closing, mass gatherings are being restricted, and bans are being imposed to reduce risks.
Temperatures in Paris could reach +41°C.
Separately, a tragedy has been reported: two children, ages 2 and 4, died in a locked car in the south of the country.
In Spain, “extremely high” temperatures are forecast, exceeding seasonal norms by 5–10°C: up to +44°C in some regions, and up to +40°C even in the north.
In Madrid, the soccer championship fan zone has been closed.
Italy has declared the highest danger level in 12 cities, including Rome, Venice, Milan, Florence, and Bologna.
Temperatures in many regions have been above +35°C for several days, reaching +37°C in Milan.
In Germany, there have been reported deaths while swimming and a risk of wildfires, while in the United Kingdom, temperatures are expected to reach up to +38°C, potentially setting a new record.
Forest fires are already raging in Greece, while Belgium is preparing for record-breaking temperatures and restricting train service.
Experts call the heat a “silent killer” because extreme temperatures significantly increase health risks, especially among vulnerable populations.
According to the WHO, extreme heat has claimed more than 200,000 lives worldwide in recent years.
European countries continue to implement emergency measures to mitigate the effects of the heat wave, which is forecast to last several more days.
CNN reports this.
The French Green Party has proposed introducing a special “climate” leave of up to five days, which would allow workers to protect themselves during extreme weather events without losing pay.
On Monday, 845 schools and colleges in France will temporarily close due to the intense heat. Another 1,800 or so educational institutions will shorten the school day and send students home early.
In Spain, May 2026 was a record-breakingly difficult month due to a heat wave that claimed the lives of at least 101 people. This is the highest figure for that month in the last 11 years of records, and it is more than three times the average for the previous decade. Authorities attribute the rise in mortality specifically to the impact of extremely high temperatures.
