Extreme heat is currently affecting Europe, with temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F) at the start of Wimbledon, while southern regions like Spain, Italy, and Greece are forecasted to experience even higher temperatures. In Andalusia, Spain, temperatures could reach 43°C, raising concerns about increased heat stroke cases among vulnerable populations. Portugal is also facing temperatures above 40°C, leading to fire warnings.
Greece has already declared its first heatwave of the season, with temperatures surpassing 40°C and wildfires forcing evacuations near Athens, where firefighting efforts are ongoing. France is experiencing its 50th national heatwave since 1947, with some regions expecting temperatures over 39°C.
In Italy, 21 cities, including Rome and Venice, are under extreme heat alerts. Neighboring countries are also feeling the impact of rising temperatures and intensified wildfires.
Authorities are advising residents across the EU to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, as nighttime relief is unlikely. Meteorologists attribute the increasing frequency of heatwaves to climate change, with significant rises in heatwave occurrences recorded in Spain since 2000.
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