Europe is in the grip of a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in several countries and regions experiencing unprecedented conditions. While the UK has seen its warmest June on record, with Norfolk reaching 37.7°C, popular holiday destinations are facing even more extreme weather.
Spain is particularly hard hit, with Aemet issuing both orange and red weather alerts for July. Barcelona recorded a staggering 40.7°C on 8th July – its highest temperature in 112 years. Forecasts suggest that areas like Andalusia and north-east Spain could see temperatures exceeding 40°C in the coming days.
France is also significantly affected, with Meteo France issuing orange weather warnings across much of the country. Bordeaux, Nantes, and Perpignan are expected to reach highs of 38-39°C this week. June saw temperatures exceed 43°C in western France, leading to the temporary closure of the Eiffel Tower and power outages affecting 68,000 households.
Italy is currently experiencing its third heatwave of the summer, with temperatures already reaching 39°C. The country is under a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms, though temperatures are still expected to remain in the mid-30s next week.
Greece has also contended with extreme heat and wildfires. While currently more susceptible to thunderstorms, with yellow warnings for areas including Skiathos, Athens, and Thessaloniki, experts anticipate ongoing heatwaves in the future. The Balkans region witnessed record-breaking temperatures earlier this summer, with highs of 39°C in Serbia and wildfires in Croatia and southern Albania.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, issuing wildfire warnings for France, Greece, and Portugal. It strongly recommends checking the local fire risk index where available and following advice from local authorities. Travellers should also familiarise themselves with emergency services contact details for their destination country.