A severe heatwave, which has already broken records in France and the UK, has reached Germany and Poland. Temperatures in some regions may exceed +40°C.
- Temperatures in Germany and Poland could reach +40°C.
- Dozens of people have already died in France as a result of the heatwave.
- Deutsche Bahn allows passengers to reschedule their journeys free of charge due to the risk of delays.
- Athletes are being forced to shorten the distances due to the extreme conditions.
- Scientists link the heatwave to climate change and an atmospheric “Omega block”.
A heatwave is moving eastwards across Europe
Following record-breaking temperatures in France, the UK and Switzerland, a severe heatwave has reached Central Europe. On Saturday, forecasters are predicting temperatures approaching +40°C in Germany and Poland. According to preliminary data, temperatures of over +41°C have already been recorded in the Saarbrücken area near the French border, which could set a new national record for Germany.
The heatwave has already led to deaths and transport problems
In France, due to extreme heat Dozens of people of all ages have died. The high temperatures have also caused disruption to rail services, problems with electricity generation, the temporary closure of schools, the postponement of public events and bans on the sale of alcohol in certain regions. The German rail operator Deutsche Bahn has allowed passengers to reschedule long-distance journeys free of charge due to the risk of delays caused by overheating of tracks, points and the overhead line system.
Organisers are changing major sporting events
Due to the heat, the organisers of the Ironman Frankfurt European Triathlon Championships have shortened the cycling and running stages. The authorities are warning of possible damage to roads and railway infrastructure, as well as disruption to public transport services.
The cause is said to be an atmospheric «Omega block»
Meteorologists attribute the abnormal heat to the so-called «Omega block» — an atmospheric situation in which a powerful high-pressure system traps hot air over a single region for an extended period. According to the World Meteorological Organisation, by the end of June the heatwave will gradually shift towards Central Europe and the Balkans.
Scientists attribute the anomaly to climate change
Climatologists point out that the current heatwave would have been virtually impossible without global climate change caused by human activity. According to their estimates, the record-breaking warm nights observed this week are now occurring about 100 times more frequently than they did just two decades ago.
