A significant heat wave is affecting much of western Europe, with temperatures expected to exceed 39°C (102.2°F) in some areas. In France, two children were found dead in a car, with local authorities indicating that heat may be a contributing factor. The prosecutor, Hélène Mourges, stated that the causes of death are still under investigation. Additionally, three elderly individuals died near Bordeaux due to health issues related to the extreme heat, and there have been reports of drownings in swimming accidents.
French authorities have issued a level 1 danger-to-life warning for 49 of the country’s 96 mainland departments, advising approximately 35 million residents to avoid strenuous activities and direct sunlight. The national weather service, Météo-France, forecasts temperatures to exceed 40°C in various regions, including 43°C in Bordeaux and 39°C in Paris, with nighttime lows also expected to be unusually high.
Over 1,300 schools closed on Monday, and many train services were canceled due to concerns about the heat affecting infrastructure. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist emphasized the importance of checking on vulnerable individuals during this heat wave. In Spain, the first official heat wave of the year has been declared, with temperatures reaching 44°C in some areas. The state weather service, Aemet, has issued red alerts for regions experiencing extreme temperatures.
Germany has suspended the final of the Berlin Open tennis tournament due to severe thunderstorms, while Belgium is experiencing temperatures that may set new records. The UK Met Office has issued an “extreme heat” warning, predicting temperatures up to 39°C, and Italy has issued heatwave alerts for 12 cities. Experts warn that as global temperatures rise, such extreme heat events are likely to become more frequent and intense.