Europe Hit by Severe Heatwave as Countries Impose Measures to Tackle Extreme Temperatures

Europe is facing another wave of extreme heat, with several countries introducing emergency measures as temperatures threaten to break June records.

France banned alcohol consumption in public areas under red heat alerts, while Spain and Germany canceled sports-related events due to dangerous weather conditions. The UK warned of unusually warm nights as temperatures continued to rise across the continent.

The latest heatwave comes less than a month after a record-breaking spell in May that affected several European countries. Scientists say the increasing frequency and intensity of such heat events are linked to global warming, driven largely by greenhouse gas emissions from coal, oil and gas use.

France

France continued its annual Fête de la Musique street festival despite soaring temperatures, but authorities introduced restrictions to reduce health risks and maintain public safety.

Alcohol consumption in public spaces was banned in departments placed under the highest red alert. The Louvre museum in Paris also canceled a planned free concert beneath its famous glass pyramid.

A record 35 departments were placed on red alert, with warnings expected to expand to nearly half of mainland France. In Paris, residents gathered near Canal Saint-Martin, where swimming was permitted to help people cope with the heat.

Germany

In Germany, organizers suspended the final of the Berlin Open tennis tournament and evacuated the venue due to severe weather conditions.

Temperatures in Berlin exceeded 30°C over the weekend, while storms affected parts of the country on Sunday.

Spain

Spain recorded its first official heatwave of the year, lasting from Sunday through Wednesday, with temperatures expected to reach 44°C in some regions.

A planned public screening in Madrid of the national football team’s World Cup match against Saudi Arabia was canceled because of the extreme heat forecast.

Across Spain and Portugal, crowds headed to beaches, carried fans and used umbrellas to escape the intense sun as temperatures surged.

Switzerland

Switzerland issued warnings for a “strong heatwave,” with temperatures expected to climb as high as 37°C in lower-altitude areas. Weather officials said it remained uncertain when the extreme heat would ease.

Balkans

Parts of Croatia and Serbia were placed under orange heat alerts, with temperatures forecast to reach around 35°C.

Authorities in Croatia issued health guidance for dealing with extreme heat, while North Macedonia, Bosnia and Montenegro prepared for rising temperatures.

Britain

The UK Met Office issued amber heat warnings from Monday to Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach 38°C in parts of England and Wales.

Officials also warned of “tropical nights,” when temperatures remain above 20°C overnight, particularly across southern England, making it harder for people to cool down.