A severe heatwave is gripping Europe, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels and prompting health warnings across the continent. Spain’s state meteorological office, Aemet, issued a special heat warning, predicting temperatures could reach 42C (107.6F) in southern regions. Madrid’s health ministry advised residents to take precautions, including staying indoors and staying hydrated. Portugal is also bracing for extreme heat and potential forest fires, with expected temperatures of up to 42C in Lisbon. In France, Marseille is offering free access to public swimming pools to help residents cope with the heat. Italy has placed 17 cities on red alert, while Greece battles a wildfire and Germany anticipates its hottest day of the year. Scientists attribute these extreme weather events to the planet’s warming, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves.
