Europe is enduring a severe heatwave in June 2026, with temperatures soaring above 45°C in parts of Spain and Italy. The extreme weather has prompted health warnings, sparked wildfires, and exacerbated drought conditions across the continent.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Spain recorded its highest June temperature ever at 47.2°C in the city of Seville, according to the Spanish meteorological agency AEMET. Italy followed closely with 46.8°C in Sicily, breaking the previous record set in 2021. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom also saw temperatures exceed 40°C, triggering red alerts for health risks.
Impact on Daily Life
The heatwave has disrupted transportation, with train services suspended in several countries due to the risk of tracks buckling. In the UK, Network Rail imposed speed restrictions on many routes. Schools in parts of Italy and Spain closed early, and outdoor events were cancelled. Hospitals reported a surge in heat-related illnesses, particularly among the elderly.
Wildfires and Drought
Wildfires have broken out in Portugal, Greece, and southern France, forcing thousands to evacuate. The European Forest Fire Information System reported over 200 fires in the past week. Drought conditions have worsened, with the Po River in Italy at its lowest level in 70 years, threatening agriculture. The European Commission warned that the heatwave could cause billions of euros in damage to crops.
Health and Government Response
Health authorities across Europe issued heat health warnings, advising people to stay indoors during peak hours. In France, the government activated its emergency heatwave plan, opening cooling centers in major cities. The World Health Organization urged countries to prepare for more frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. According to Dr. Maria Neira, WHO director for environment, climate change and health, “This is a stark reminder that climate change is already affecting our health.”
Gallery of Images
The Guardian's photo gallery captures the impact of the heatwave: children playing in fountains in Madrid, sunbathers on a nearly empty beach in Nice, firefighters battling a blaze in Greece, and a dried-up riverbed in Tuscany. The images highlight the severity of the event and the adaptation measures people are taking.
