Europe Heatwave Kills 18, Breaks Records in France, Spain; UK Forecasts New Highs
A European heatwave has claimed at least 18 lives in France, including two children, and caused 13 drownings. Record temperatures were set across France and Spain, with the UK forecasting new highs. This «Omega block» heatwave, intensified by climate change, is causing widespread disruption and affecting wildlife.
A heatwave across Europe has resulted in at least 18 deaths in France, including two children, aged two and four, found unconscious in a hot car in Carpentras. Three elderly individuals, aged 80-95, died in the Bordeaux region from heat-related health issues over the weekend. Additionally, 13 people drowned from Sunday into Monday, prompting warnings to swim only in supervised areas.
Temperature records were shattered on Monday. Bordeaux, France, reached 41.9 degrees, surpassing its August record. Poitiers hit 41.2 degrees, breaking a 1947 record. San Sebastian, Spain, was forecast to reach 40 degrees, more than double its June 22nd average. Paris was expected to hit 38.4 degrees, its highest June temperature. Italy issued red alerts for 12 cities, and Turin experienced power cuts.
The heatwave, an «Omega block» drawing warm air from the Sahara, is slow-moving and windless. The UK Met Office predicted temperatures could exceed 39 degrees, breaking the June record of 35.6 degrees set in 1957 and 1976. Europe is warming at more than double the global rate, intensifying heatwaves and storms due to climate change. Birds, like swifts and sparrows, are also affected, with 150 animals rescued in Belgium after jumping from nests due to extreme roof temperatures.