European nations are grappling with an intense heatwave, as multiple countries report unprecedented May temperature highs. Portugal and France have officially recorded their hottest days for May, while Italy has placed its capital, Rome, on a red alert. The extreme weather event, described as a 'heat dome' affecting western Europe, has seen cities like Paris register temperatures soaring towards 34C, remaining under an orange alert. Officials in Rome and four northern Italian cities have cautioned residents to avoid direct sun exposure, as temperatures there reach a significant 32C. Portugal's meteorological office anticipates temperatures exceeding 35C in some regions before a gradual cooling trend next week.
Portugal has recorded its highest ever May temperature at 40.3C.
The widespread heat has not been without consequence. Reports indicate fatalities in Britain and France, primarily attributed to drowning accidents, which authorities suspect are linked to the oppressive heat. In a stark illustration of the impact, a school in southwestern France was compelled to close its doors on Thursday and Friday afternoons after corridor temperatures hit a sweltering 53C on Tuesday, leading to student illness.
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France's Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, convened a ministerial meeting to strategize for extreme heat events, focusing on measures to combat forest fires and secure water supplies throughout the summer.
Scientists are highlighting that climate change is a contributing factor, increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather occurrences such as these heatwaves. While the worst of the heat may have abated in Britain, much of France continues to experience sweltering conditions.
