Western Europe is grappling with a severe early-summer heatwave, as France, Spain, and the United Kingdom record unprecedented temperatures for May. In France, over 350 towns have reported their highest May temperatures on record, particularly in the western regions. The most extreme temperature was observed in the south-western area of Landes, reaching 37.1°C.
The United Kingdom also experienced record-breaking heat, with temperatures reaching 34.8°C at Kew Gardens in London, setting a new national May high. Weather specialists have noted that temperatures in several European regions are currently 12°C to 13°C above the seasonal norm, and the heatwave is expected to persist for several days. Parts of Spain may see temperatures soar to 40°C later this week.
French meteorological officials attribute the extreme conditions to a heat dome phenomenon, in which hot air from Morocco is trapped under a strong high-pressure system. They caution that such occurrences are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change. As a result, 31 French departments have been placed under high-temperature alerts, with several under the second-highest warning level. Notably, this marks the first activation of France’s national heat warning system in May since it was established in 2004.
Temperatures have surpassed 35°C in several French towns, with Paris nearing 33°C. Authorities reported a fatality during a 10-kilometre race near Paris, where a participant reportedly suffered a heart attack due to the extreme heat, while several others were hospitalized in critical condition. In Spain, temperatures have already reached 38°C in the southern regions, with expectations of further increases throughout the week. Meteorologists warn of the likelihood of “tropical nights” in many areas, where temperatures remain above 20°C even after sunset.
Experts assert that heatwaves in Europe are occurring earlier in the year and with increasing regularity, attributed to the ongoing impacts of climate change. This alarming trend underscores the pressing need for comprehensive climate action to mitigate its effects.