Authorities across Europe are on high alert as the first heatwave of the summer pushes temperatures up to 42°C (107.6°F). Countries like Spain, Portugal, Greece, and France are issuing warnings for extreme heat, wildfires, and health risks. This comes as Europe continues to experience the effects of the climate crisis, with more frequent and severe weather events.
In Spain, the state meteorological agency Aemet issued a special heat warning, predicting temperatures as high as 42°C in some southern areas over the next few days. They have warned that such extreme heat could risk vulnerable people during the day and at night.
Madrid’s health ministry is urging residents to take extra care during this heatwave. It advises people to stay out of the sun, drink plenty of water, and watch over vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health issues.
A large portion of Portugal is under high alert due to extreme heat and the risk of wildfires. On Sunday, temperatures in Lisbon are expected to rise to 42°C.
As of June 28, 2025, southern Spain recorded 42°C by 3 pm GMT. In France, Marseille temperatures are approaching 40°C, and public swimming pools in the city are being opened for free to help residents cope with the heat. In Italy, Naples and Palermo are expected to peak at 39°C, and a ban on outdoor work during the hottest hours has been enforced in Sicily and Liguria, with trade unions pushing to extend this to other regions.
In Venice, where high-profile events like Jeff Bezos’ wedding occur, residents, visitors, and even protesters are battling the heat. Sriane Mina, an Italian student in Venice, said, “I try not to focus on the heat, but I make sure to stay hydrated and keep moving, as staying still increases the risk of sunstroke.”
Meanwhile, in Greece, temperatures are nearing 40°C. On Thursday, a large wildfire broke out south of Athens, prompting authorities to order evacuations in the affected regions. As a result, parts of the coastal road linking Athens to the Temple of Poseidon were closed.
As the EU’s Copernicus climate monitor reported, this heatwave follows a series of broken records, including Europe’s hottest March ever. Scientists warn that extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, floods, hurricanes, and droughts, are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming.
Last year set a record for the hottest year, leading to global disasters that resulted in damages exceeding $300 billion. According to a Lancet Public Health study, heat-related deaths in Europe could triple by the end of the century, with southern countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain being hit hardest.
The study suggests that heat-related deaths could increase to 129,000 annually if temperatures rise by 3°C above pre-industrial levels. Currently, 44,000 deaths are linked to extreme heat in Europe each year. Even with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C, Europe’s death toll from heat and cold is expected to rise from 407,000 today to 450,000 by 2100.
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