An early summer heatwave continued its grip across much of Europe on Wednesday, leading to at least eight deaths, triggering wildfires, prompting health alerts, and causing infrastructure disruptions. Spain, France, and Italy were among the countries reporting fatalities and significant impacts from the extreme temperatures.
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This heatwave, occurring unusually early in the season, highlights the growing challenges posed by rising global temperatures and their effects on public health, infrastructure, and the environment.
Human Toll and Health Alerts
Officials reported four deaths in Spain directly linked to the intense heat. Two fatalities occurred due to a wildfire in Catalonia, while authorities in Extremadura and Cordoba also confirmed heatwave-related deaths.
In France, the energy minister announced two heat-linked deaths, alongside 300 people requiring hospital treatment. Learn more about heatwave health risks.
Italy issued red alerts for 18 cities, indicating high health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. The ANSA news agency reported the deaths of two men over 60 on a beach in Sardinia, attributed to the heat.
Catherine Vautrin, France’s health minister, stressed the need for vigilance, particularly concerning the elderly who are most susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Wildfires and Infrastructure Strain
Wildfires have erupted in several regions. A major fire in Spain’s Catalonia region, although later contained, destroyed farms and affected an area of about 40 kilometers (25 miles).
Turkey also battled blazes earlier in the week, leading to the temporary evacuation of approximately 50,000 people, though authorities later stated these fires were largely contained.
The heatwave also impacted critical infrastructure. Swiss utility Axpo reduced output at its Beznau nuclear power plant, shutting down one reactor unit and halving another due to the high temperature of river water used for cooling. Restrictions were expected to continue as river temperatures remained elevated.
Excessive warming in unstable atmospheres has also increased the risk of severe storms. Violent storms in the French Alps triggered mudslides, disrupting rail services between Paris and Milan.
Economic and Social Impacts
The extreme heat is anticipated to have economic consequences. A report from Allianz Research suggested the heat could slow the region’s economic growth, potentially by half a percentage point in 2025, comparing the cost of a single day above 32°C (90°F) to half a day of strikes.
Businesses are feeling the pinch. British baker Greggs warned that annual profits might fall below last year’s levels as the hot weather in the UK discourages customers from visiting shops.
Public life is also adjusting. In Germany, many people sought refuge from the heat in pools and lakes, with some schools closing. The upper floors of the Eiffel Tower in Paris were closed to visitors, and the Atomium in Brussels also closed early as a precaution.
Climate Context
Scientists attribute the earlier arrival and intensity of heatwaves this year partly to warming seas which contribute to the formation of heat domes, trapping hot air over regions like Europe. Temperatures have spiked by up to 10°C (50°F) in some areas.
Greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels are cited as a primary driver of climate change, along with deforestation and industrial activities. Last year was recorded as the planet’s hottest on record.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme, commented that extreme heat is “testing our resilience and putting the health and lives of millions at risk,” adding that this “new climate reality means we can no longer be surprised when temperatures reach record highs each year.”
Spain experienced its hottest June on record this year, while France recorded its hottest June since 2003, providing historical context for the unusual intensity of the current heatwave.
Looking Ahead
As the heatwave persists, authorities continue to monitor conditions and advise precautions, particularly for vulnerable populations. The event underscores the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather linked to climate change and its wide-ranging impacts across Europe.
For further reading on the effects of climate change and extreme weather events, explore our related stories.
