Europe has been hit by its first major heatwave of the summer. Temperatures in many countries are exceeding +40°C, prompting the authorities to issue red alerts and cancel train services.
- A severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching +40°C, has swept across Europe.
- France has cancelled dozens of train services due to the risk of damage to infrastructure.
- A red alert has been issued in Italy and Spain.
- In Germany, the heatwave is accompanied by dangerous thunderstorms and downpours.
- Animal rescue centres are reporting an increase in cases of heat exhaustion.
A heatwave has swept across Europe
The first major heatwave of the summer has swept across much of Europe, with temperatures in many regions approaching +40°C. The authorities have issued red alert warnings, and transport companies have begun cancelling services. Emergency services are reporting a rise in the number of people and animals affected.
Dangerous temperatures in Italy and Spain
On 21 June, the day of the summer solstice, a heatwave from the Sahara swept across Western and Central Europe. In Italy, a red alert has been issued in eight cities, including Rome, Milan, Turin, Bologna and Florence. Pilgrims in St Peter’s Square in Rome sought shelter from the scorching sun under parasols during the traditional Sunday prayer service. Popes.
In Spain, the national meteorological service, AEMET, has issued red and orange warnings for a number of regions. In many parts of the country, as well as on the island of Mallorca, temperatures have exceeded +39°C.
A heat dome over Europe
Meteorologists attribute the extreme heat to the influence of the «African anticyclone» — a powerful high-pressure system that has brought hot air from the Sahara. This has led to the formation of a «heat dome» over part of the continent, which traps the hot air and prevents it from dispersing.
The impact of the heatwave on transport
The high temperatures have already had a negative impact on transport infrastructure. France’s national rail operator, SNCF, has reported operational difficulties across the network. Seventy-one intercity trains on the country’s key routes have been cancelled due to the risk of damage to overhead lines and track deformation. Passengers, particularly the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, have been advised to postpone their journeys where possible.
Thunderstorms in Germany
In Germany, temperatures reached as high as +38°C in some places. At the same time, meteorologists warned of dangerous thunderstorms in the eastern regions, including Berlin. Due to heavy rain and gusty winds, the organisers were forced to evacuate spectators at the Berlin Open tennis tournament.
Consequences for animals
Consequences. unusual weather It is not just people who are feeling the effects. In Belgium, animal rescue centres are reporting a sharp rise in the number of cases. Over the last few days, around 150 animals showing symptoms of heat exhaustion have been brought to one such centre near Namur. Experts stress that such heatwaves are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change.
