Southern Europe Faces Record Heatwave Amid Climate Crisis
Date Published
Southern Europe is currently enduring an intense heatwave, marking the beginning of the summer season with unprecedented temperatures.
As temperatures in cities like Rome and Athens climb above 37°C, authorities warn of worsening conditions and increased wildfire risks.
The European region is feeling the tangible effects of climate change, with recent records indicating hotter Marches and more frequent heatwaves.
Experts emphasize that human activity, especially fossil fuel burning, is accelerating global warming, leading to these extreme weather events.
In Italy, cities such as Naples and Palermo are experiencing peaks of 39°C, prompting bans on outdoor work during hottest hours to protect workers and residents.
Similarly, in Greece, wildfires have broken out along the coastline near Athens, fueled by high winds and temperatures approaching 40°C.
Firefighting efforts include over 100 firefighters supported by aircraft, battling flames threatening holiday homes and forested areas.
Authorities in France’s Marseille have responded to the rising temperatures by making public swimming pools free to help residents cope with the Mediterranean heat.
Portugal faces a high alert for forest fires as temperatures in Lisbon reach 42°C, with two-thirds of the country under extreme heat warnings.
Meanwhile, Venice’s visitors and protesters experienced sweltering conditions during Jeff Bezos’s wedding on Friday, illustrating how heat impacts social events and tourism alike.
A recent European Union climate monitor report highlights that Europe experienced its hottest March ever, a clear sign of ongoing climate deterioration.
The current heatwave underscores the urgency for global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate future extreme weather events.
As climate scientists warn, these blistering temperatures are a stark reminder that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate crisis affecting millions across Southern Europe today.