LONDON (AP) — A heat wave has affected parts of Western Europe, leading to temperature records being broken and prompting government warnings regarding health risks. In London, a 'tropical night' was recorded when temperatures did not drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit), with forecasts predicting temperatures could reach 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) in southern England on Tuesday.
Authorities reported the death of a 13-year-old boy who encountered difficulties in a reservoir in Halifax, northern England, on Monday. In France, temperatures exceeded 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in many areas, with reports indicating at least seven deaths possibly linked to the heat, including five drownings and two fatalities during sports events.
Monday marked the hottest May day on record in the U.K., with temperatures reaching 34.8 degrees Celsius at Kew Gardens in London, surpassing the previous record of 32.8 degrees Celsius (91.4 degrees Fahrenheit) set in 1922 and 1944. Following a long weekend that saw many people visiting beaches and parks, commuters in London faced discomfort in unairconditioned subway trains, with disruptions reported at Waterloo station due to smoke on the tracks.
The U.K. Health Security Agency issued an amber health alert for much of the country until Wednesday morning, highlighting potential health risks, especially for the elderly, during peak temperature times. Many homes, schools, and businesses in the U.K. lack air conditioning, making the heat particularly challenging.
In France, officials noted a rise in emergencies at beaches, with two drowning deaths reported on Sunday in the Gironde region. Regional administrator Sophie Brocas advised beachgoers to exercise caution. Experts indicate that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent as global temperatures rise, posing increased risks to public safety.
