Spain, France and Italy have issued rare orange alerts as a severe heatwave sweeps across Europe, with temperatures expected to reach 40°C. UK tourists have been warned of "super tropical nights" and potential health risks.
Italy
In Italy, orange warnings are in place across Bologna, Brescia, Perugia and Turin, with maximum temperatures ranging between 33°C and 36°C.
France
France has placed 26 areas on orange alert amid fears temperatures could skyrocket over the weekend of Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, to a staggering 34°C to 38°C, according to Météo-France. For Friday, maximum temperatures will range from 34°C to 36°C from the western Massif Central to the northeast, with highs of 38°C near the French Riviera and Corsica. In Paris and the Ile-de-France region, highs of around 36°C to 37°C are forecast, close to monthly records for June.
Spain and Other Countries
Portugal will also reach the thirties, Germany is braced for 36°C, and Spain is set to bake in stifling conditions, particularly in the south and Andalusia regions. Madrid could see 40°C, while Seville expects 36°C. Orange alerts are in place across southern Europe. Even London could hit 34°C at times, according to UK forecasts.
Health Warnings
The UK Health and Security Agency warns of "a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. There may also be impacts on younger age groups" and "likely increased demand on all health and social care services." It expects "internal temperatures in care settings (hospitals and care homes) may exceed the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment" and "the heat affecting the ability of the workforce to deliver services."
In Spain, the meteorological agency AEMET suggests people avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours and stay hydrated. Going to the supermarket as early as possible or in the last hours of the day is best. The combination of daytime extremes and warm nights increases dangers for vulnerable groups. There are fire risk rises in northern areas, not just the south and east.
