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PARIS, Jun 22 (Alliance News): A severe heatwave has swept across much of Europe, with temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), triggering nationwide alerts, transport disruptions, and growing concerns over the impact on public health, wildlife, and infrastructure.
The extreme heat, arriving on June 21 during the summer solstice and the beginning of Europe’s hottest period of the year, has raised concerns over an early and prolonged spell of dangerous temperatures across the continent.
After several days of temperatures above 35°C, Italian authorities issued red heat alerts in eight major cities, including Bologna, Florence, Milan, and Turin.
In Rome, residents and visitors used umbrellas and parasols to protect themselves from intense sunlight as religious gatherings continued, including the Pope’s traditional Sunday prayer from the Apostolic Palace.
Meteorologists said the heatwave is being driven by a large mass of hot air moving north from the Sahara Desert, strengthened by a powerful high-pressure system known as the “African anticyclone.”
The weather pattern has created a “heat dome” effect, trapping hot air over western and central Europe and causing temperatures to rise steadily over several days.
In Spain, residents and tourists attempted to cope with the extreme conditions in cities such as Madrid, where people relied on fans, cold drinks, and protective clothing while visiting outdoor locations.
Spain’s weather agency AEMET issued red and orange alerts in several regions, warning that temperatures could exceed 39°C to 40°C across large parts of the Iberian Peninsula and Mallorca. Authorities said the heatwave was expected to continue until at least the middle of the week.
The extreme temperatures have also disrupted transport networks, particularly in France, where high heat affected railway operations.
French railway operator SNCF Chief Jean Castex said the country’s rail system was facing serious challenges due to the risk of damage caused by expanding tracks and overheating power lines.
He said around 3,500 staff members had been deployed to monitor railway conditions, while another 2,000 workers were prepared for emergency repairs. The company cancelled 71 intercity trains on key routes and advised vulnerable passengers to reconsider travel plans.
Germany also experienced intense heat, with temperatures reaching 38°C. The German Weather Service warned of severe thunderstorms in eastern regions, including Berlin, where heavy rainfall affected outdoor events.
The open-air Fête de la Musique festival in Berlin faced disruption due to storms, while organizers evacuated areas of the Berlin Open tennis tournament as strong winds and rain arrived before the singles final.
The heatwave has also created serious challenges for wildlife. A rescue centre near Namur in Belgium reported receiving around 150 heat-stressed animals in recent days, with young birds among the most vulnerable.
Romain De Jaegere, founder of CREAVES wildlife centre, said young birds were particularly affected as extreme temperatures made nesting conditions dangerous.
Environmental experts said the increasing frequency and intensity of European heatwaves are linked to climate change, which is contributing to longer periods of extreme heat and more frequent weather-related disruptions.
Scientists warn that rising global temperatures are increasing risks for human health, ecosystems, agriculture, and infrastructure, making climate adaptation measures increasingly important across Europe and other regions facing similar challenges.
