Germans bracing themselves for a sweltering weekend as Europe's heatwave intensifies, with provisional records shattered and temperatures predicted to soar well over 40C. Yesterday, the mercury hit a staggering 41.3C near Saarbrücken, a town close to the French border, marking Germany's highest ever recorded temperature.
Forecasters warn that the extreme weather will now shift eastwards, impacting countries such as Poland and the Balkans over the coming days. In Frankfurt, organisers of the Ironman European Championship have taken drastic measures, shortening both the cycling and running courses due to the anticipated heat. Karsten Brandt, a meteorologist at Donnerwetter.de, highlights that temperatures are projected to peak over the weekend, with some parts of Germany expected to exceed 40C.
The sweltering conditions have taken a devastating toll on France, where several regions have recorded temperatures above 40C. Heat-related fatalities, including drownings and heat stress deaths, continue to rise as individuals seek relief in water. In Paris, the Pride march scheduled for this weekend has been postponed due to police concerns about putting further pressure on already strained emergency services.
In stark contrast, Hungarian organisers of the Budapest Pride march have confirmed that their event will proceed as planned this weekend, despite temperatures forecasted to reach 38C. Transgender activist Pippin Nadori told AFP that this year's march aims to send a clear message to Hungary's new government, highlighting the ongoing relevance of LGBTQ+ issues.
The UK, which provisionally broke its June temperature record for a third consecutive day yesterday with 37.3C recorded in Suffolk, is set for a welcome respite from the heat. According to the Met Office, temperatures will peak in the low 30s before dropping over the weekend, bringing an end to the extreme weather that has gripped much of Europe.
Source: Met Office, Reuters, AFP, Donnerwetter.de