Key facts
- Millions in France, Italy, Spain, and Britain are experiencing extreme heat.
- Temperatures have surpassed 42°C in parts of France and 38°C in London.
- The heatwave has fueled significant wildfires, particularly in France, Spain, Portugal, and Greece.
- The UK is facing its longest dry spell in decades, impacting water supply.
- Scientists link the extreme weather events to human-caused climate change.
Europe is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with millions of people across France, Italy, Spain, and Britain facing extreme temperatures. Several countries have recorded their highest temperatures in recent history, with some areas exceeding 42°C. This prolonged heat has exacerbated drought conditions, leading to widespread wildfires. France is battling its most significant wildfire since World War II, and Spain has declared a national wildfire emergency. The UK is enduring its longest dry spell in decades, prompting water restrictions. Healthcare systems, particularly in the UK, are struggling with an increase in heat-related illnesses like heatstroke. Scientists attribute these increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves to human-caused climate change, highlighting Europe's vulnerability to hot weather.