Searing Heatwaves Sweep Across Europe
Heatwaves continue to batter Europe, from Spain to Germany, with devastating consequences. Spain’s weather agency predicts higher-than-normal temperatures until October, while Paris Olympians battle extreme heat, which experts attribute to human-caused climate change. Droughts and wildfires plague the Mediterranean, and the World Health Organization warns that extreme heat claims over 175,000 lives annually in Europe, with numbers expected to rise.
Spain Faces Record-Breaking Temperatures
Spain’s Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued yellow, orange, and red heatwave warnings as temperatures threaten to reach 43°C in the southeast. Sweltering conditions are forecast across the east coast, south, and center for most of August, peaking on Thursday. Baza in Grenada and northwest Murcia are the hardest hit, with Barcelona recording its hottest day in 110 years at over 40°C. AEMET anticipates higher-than-normal temperatures across Spain until October.
Rome Under Maximum Heat Warning
Rome grapples with a significant fire in its northwest, tackled by helicopters and fire engines, as a heatwave grips the city. Maximum heat warnings have been issued, with temperatures expected to soar into the high 30s on Thursday and Friday. Other cities, including Florence, Bologna, Milan, and Turin, are also under red weather warnings. The south of Italy faces persistent drought, forcing Sicilian farmers to sell or slaughter livestock due to severe water shortages.
Germany Issues Heat Warning Amid Soaring Temperatures
Germany isn’t spared from the heatwave, with the German Weather Service DWD issuing warnings as temperatures exceed 35°C. Wednesday was forecasted to be the hottest day of the year, especially in southwest Germany, which faced thunderstorms and heavy rain as warm air moved north. Environmental groups warn that Germany is unprepared for heatwaves, with less than half of the 190 cities analyzed adequately protecting citizens. More green spaces and unsealed surfaces are needed in cities like Frankfurt and Stuttgart.
Paris Olympics Endure Extreme Heat
Paris, hosting the Olympic Games, experienced temperatures reaching 35°C this week. The World Weather Attribution group warned that the high temperatures could impact athletes’ performance and increase heat-related illnesses. Southeastern France also faces extreme weather, with temperatures up to 40°C expected until at least August 4. Météo-France issued orange heatwave warnings in regions like Corsica and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. WWA states that such extreme heat events are no longer rare and urges a rapid cessation of fossil fuel burning to mitigate future heatwaves.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Globe and Mail
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