Europe Swelters as Heatwave Triggers Wildfires and Health Warnings

A heatwave gripped parts of Europe on Monday, pushing temperatures to 43°C in southern France, heightening wildfire risks in wine country, and sparking blazes in Bulgaria and record-breaking weekend heat in Hungary.

Scientists warn Europe is the world’s fastest-warming continent, with land temperatures about 2.3°C above pre-industrial levels — nearly double the global average — intensifying extreme weather. The EU’s Copernicus climate service says this summer’s burned area is already far above the long-term average, with major outbreaks in Spain, Portugal, and deadly fires in Greece since late June.

In France’s Aude department, firefighters continued to secure the perimeter of a blaze that destroyed 16,000 hectares last week. Officials say it is under control but may smolder for weeks. Météo-France placed 12 departments on red alert, the highest heat warning, with 41 more under orange alerts. The designation allows local authorities to cancel outdoor events, close venues, and adjust school or camp schedules.

In the UK, the Met Office forecast a fourth summer heatwave, with London expected to hit 33°C on Tuesday. The UK Health Security Agency issued a yellow health alert for vulnerable groups.

Climatologist Serge Zaka told BFMTV from Montauban: “Don’t be fooled — this isn’t ‘normal, it’s summer.’ It’s a nightmare.” Social media showed shuttered streets, foil-covered windows, and empty café terraces as residents sought relief indoors.