Europe is currently experiencing a significant heatwave, coinciding with the summer solstice on June 21. Meteorologists attribute the heatwave to a mass of hot air moving north from the Sahara, supported by a high-pressure system known as the "African anticyclone." This system has created a "heat dome" over Western and Central Europe, resulting in rising temperatures. In cities like Granada, Spain, temperatures have reached 39 degrees Celsius.
This marks the second heatwave of the year for Europe, following a previous occurrence of high temperatures last month. The World Health Organization's Europe office reports that over 200,000 people have died from heat-related causes in the continent over the past four years.
In France, authorities have placed approximately 35 departments on red alert for extreme heat, impacting the rail network and leading to the cancellation of 71 intercity trains. Vulnerable passengers are advised to postpone travel. Despite the heat, the Fete de la Musique festival continued, though public alcohol consumption was banned in affected areas.
Germany is also facing high temperatures, with forecasts predicting up to 39 degrees Celsius by Wednesday. Severe thunderstorms are expected, and the Berlin Open tennis tournament had to suspend its women's singles final due to adverse weather conditions. The German Life-Saving Association has issued warnings regarding swimming in rivers and lakes, following incidents of drownings over the weekend.
In Italy, several cities have been placed under red alert as temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius, while Spain's weather agency has issued alerts for regions expecting temperatures over 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. A public screening of a World Cup match in Madrid was canceled due to the heatwave.