Extreme heat has shattered temperature records in several parts of Europe, triggering severe wildfires and raising fresh concerns about the accelerating impacts of climate change. Regions in south-west France, Croatia, Italy, and Spain have reported temperatures well above seasonal norms, with some areas exceeding 40°C.
In France, multiple towns experienced temperatures around 12°C higher than average, while Croatia recorded 39.5°C in Šibenik and 38.9°C in Dubrovnik. Large forest fires have erupted along the Adriatic coast and in other parts of southern Europe. Italy issued red heat alerts in major cities, and Spain reported wildfire fatalities.
Scientists warn that the length and geographic spread of this heatwave make it particularly dangerous. Hot, dry conditions have fueled an 87% increase in wildfire destruction compared with the average over the past two decades, with more than 400,000 hectares already burned this year. Public health experts caution that prolonged heatwaves will continue to drive excess mortality in Europe unless strong adaptation measures are put in place.
Climate specialists say this year’s events are consistent with global warming trends, noting that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense, creating dangerous conditions for people, wildlife, and ecosystems.