Europe is finally set to catch a break after days of scorching heat and record-setting temperatures. Weather forecasts predict a significant cool-down and widespread thunderstorms moving in from the Atlantic this week.
France and Germany to See Immediate Relief
According to Météo-France, Paris, which baked at 40°C (104°F) on Tuesday, will cool to 35°C on Wednesday and drop further to 28°C by Thursday. Storm systems will sweep across northwest France and progress eastward toward Germany, bringing much-needed relief.
In Germany, the heatwave will peak on Wednesday as Frankfurt reaches 40°C. Cooler air will bring temperatures down to 27°C by Thursday, the German national weather service said.
Spain and Italy Still Facing Extreme Heat
Spain and Italy will continue to endure extreme heat until the weekend. Forecasts indicate no immediate respite for these regions.
School Closures and Record-Breaking Temperatures
The heat forced the closure of around 2,200 schools across France on Tuesday. Officials noted that only about 135 schools would remain shut on Wednesday as conditions improve.
Météo-France confirmed that June 30 was the hottest June day in France since records began in 1947, surpassing the 2019 record. Portugal and the Netherlands also reported all-time highs this week.
Historical Heat and Climate Data
Experts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts estimate that this June will rank among the five hottest on record in Europe.
Over the weekend, the Mediterranean Sea reached its highest-ever June temperature. Mont Blanc’s summit briefly rose above freezing—an unusual event for early summer.
Forest Fires in Turkey Under Control
In Turkey, forest fires near Izmir and Hatay are mostly contained. However, hot, dry winds continue to challenge firefighting efforts.
Public Health Warnings and Tragic Consequences
Governments and health officials have issued urgent warnings, especially for children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses. Past heatwaves have caused tens of thousands of deaths in Europe.
Tragically, Spanish police reported the death of a two-year-old child left inside a parked car for several hours during the heatwave.
Climate Change and Human Impact
“Extreme heat is becoming more frequent and intense due to human-induced climate change,” said Clare Nullis, spokesperson for the World Meteorological Organization. “This is something we must learn to live with.”
Cities Offer Relief Measures
Cities across Europe have rolled out protective measures. Venice is offering free access to air-conditioned museums, while Rome has opened public swimming pools at no cost.
Economic Impacts of the Heatwave
A report by Allianz Trade, released on Tuesday, warned that the heatwave could reduce European economic growth by up to 0.5 percentage points this year.
French health authorities will release preliminary estimates of heat-related deaths about two weeks after the heatwave ends. Full data will be published in the fall.
A Glimpse of Relief—and a Stark Reminder
As Europe enters July, cooler temperatures, thunderstorms, and renewed public health measures offer some relief. Yet, the ongoing climate crisis continues to intensify weather extremes across the continent.
