A severe heatwave continues to grip Western Europe, bringing dangerously high temperatures to several countries, including Germany and Italy, and disrupting daily life across the region. In many areas, temperatures have already surpassed 40 degrees Celsius, with meteorologists warning that the extreme heat is gradually spreading eastward.
German meteorologist Karsten Brandt said temperatures in parts of Germany could climb well above 40°C over the weekend, describing the current spell as the peak of the ongoing heatwave.
According to the German Weather Service (DWD), the city of Saarbrücken, near the French border, recorded 41.3°C on Friday. Heat warnings have been issued for almost the entire country on Saturday, with forecasts indicating that temperatures could reach 42°C in some regions.
Climate researchers say unusually warm nights are becoming increasingly common as global temperatures rise. Their analysis suggests that the likelihood of such conditions is now around 100 times greater than it was two decades ago.
In France, the heatwave has already claimed multiple lives. Extreme temperatures have disrupted rail services, placed additional strain on electricity supplies, and forced the suspension of educational activities in several areas.
Meanwhile, Italy’s Ministry of Health has issued its highest-level red alert for 18 major cities, including Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Turin, Genoa, and Bologna. Authorities have urged residents, particularly vulnerable groups, to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
The northern Italian city of Bolzano also recorded its warmest June night on record, with temperatures remaining above 25.4°C throughout the night, according to local meteorological authorities.
Data from the Reuters Climate Monitor attribute the prolonged heatwave to a rare atmospheric pattern known as an “Omega Block.” The phenomenon traps hot air over large areas for extended periods, pushing temperatures to as much as 18°C above seasonal averages and intensifying heatwave conditions.
Weather officials expect conditions to ease somewhat after the weekend. However, forecasts indicate that thunderstorms and heavy rainfall could affect parts of the region on Sunday.
Source: Reuters.