Europe Grapples With Devastating Heat Wave

A severe heat wave has engulfed much of Europe, with extreme temperatures triggering heat warnings across France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands. Wildfires have erupted in France and Turkey, forcing over 50,000 people to evacuate in Turkey on Monday. Authorities reported that while the blazes were under control, they had not yet been fully extinguished.
Dr. Hans Kluge, head of the World Health Organization’s Europe office, warned that the current heat wave is shattering records and straining health systems, putting countless lives at risk. Kluge attributed the rising temperatures to climate change, stating that heatwaves are no longer rare and are becoming more intense, frequent, and dangerous.
The heat has also impacted sports events, with rules allowing players to take a 10-minute break when temperatures exceed 30.1°C (86.2°F). However, during a match on Monday, a spectator fell ill, leading to a 15-minute pause in the match between Carlos Alcaraz and Fabio Fognini.
Weather officials predict that intense heat will persist across much of Spain until Thursday.

Published: 7/1/2025