Key facts
- Western Europe experienced its hottest June-July on record.
- The combined average temperature for June-July reached 21.62C.
- This temperature surpasses the previous record set in 2022.
- The EU's climate monitor noted significantly lower soil moisture.
- Soil moisture levels are lower than during the 2022 drought.
- The region is experiencing ongoing heat waves.
Western Europe has experienced its hottest June-July period on record, with the combined average temperature reaching 21.62 degrees Celsius. This new record surpasses the previous high set in 2022. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) noted that soil moisture levels are significantly lower than those recorded during the severe drought of 2022. This observation highlights the intensifying effects of climate change on the region's hydrological cycle. The record temperatures and reduced soil moisture are occurring amidst persistent heat waves affecting various parts of Western Europe, contributing to drought conditions and increased climate risks.