Western Europe is grappling with an unusual early-summer heatwave, with France, Spain, and the United Kingdom experiencing record-breaking temperatures for May. More than 350 towns across France, particularly in the western regions, have logged their highest May temperatures ever, with a peak of 37.1°C recorded in the south-western area of Landes. Similarly, the United Kingdom saw its national May temperature record shattered when 34.8°C was measured at Kew Gardens in London.
Weather experts report that temperatures in several European regions are currently 12°C to 13°C above the seasonal averages, with forecasts suggesting the heatwave may persist for several more days. In Spain, temperatures have already soared to 38°C in the southern areas, with predictions indicating they could reach a sweltering 40°C later in the week. Meteorologists have also warned of “tropical nights” in many regions, where temperatures will not drop below 20°C even after sunset.
The extreme heat conditions in France are attributed to a phenomenon known as a heat dome, where hot air from Morocco is trapped under a strong high-pressure system. This situation has prompted French weather authorities to issue high-temperature alerts across 31 departments, with some regions placed under the second-highest warning level. It is noteworthy that this marks the first activation of France’s national heat warning system in May since its inception in 2004.
The heatwave has had serious consequences, with temperatures surpassing 35°C in several French locations and Paris nearing 33°C. Tragically, a participant in a 10-kilometre race near Paris died after reportedly suffering a heart attack due to the extreme heat, while several others were hospitalized in critical condition. Experts emphasize that heatwaves in Europe are now occurring earlier in the year and with increasing frequency and intensity, a trend attributed to long-term climate change.