Germany and Italy faced extreme heat on Saturday, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) as a heatwave affecting Western Europe spread eastward. Denmark reported its hottest temperature since records began in 1874, reaching 36.6 degrees Celsius. Slovakia experienced its warmest night, recording 26.3 degrees. The UK, France, Switzerland, and Germany also noted record heat in June, with further increases expected as the system moves toward Poland.
Tragically, several drownings occurred in Britain, raising the death toll from water-related accidents to six due to the heatwave, which has also claimed lives in France. Scientists indicated that the intensity of this heatwave is significantly influenced by climate change, with nighttime temperatures expected to be 100 times warmer than two decades ago.
Germany recorded its highest temperature of 41.3 degrees Celsius near Saarbrücken on Friday, prompting heatwave warnings across the country. Authorities urged water conservation as nationwide temperatures were projected to hit 36 degrees, with local peaks of 42 degrees.
Italy’s Health Ministry issued emergency alerts for 18 cities, forecasting temperatures up to 39 degrees. In France, the ongoing heat was straining healthcare services and increasing reported wildfires compared to last year. This led to service disruptions in transportation and event postponements.
In response to the heat, German railway operator Deutsche Bahn allowed customers to cancel reservations, while parts of major roads, like the A7 Autobahn, closed due to asphalt damage. Some events, like Milan’s Pride march, were postponed to avoid peak temperatures, and cultural attractions across Europe closed for safety.
The worst of the heat is expected to ease on Sunday with severe thunderstorms, but the impact on agriculture, infrastructure, and public health remains significant. The phenomenon known as an omega block is causing hot air to be trapped, drastically raising temperatures beyond seasonal averages. Demand for cooling appliances like fans and air conditioners has surged in Europe.
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