Record-high temperatures in Europe as heat dome triggers first major summer heatwave

Record-high temperatures are being observed across multiple European countries as the first major heatwave of summer hits southern and central Europe, with authorities warning of health risks and increased fire danger.

Scientists attribute the extreme heat to a heat dome phenomenon that traps atmospheric heat for days or weeks.

Temperatures reached 46°C in Spain and Portugal, with the Portuguese town of Móra recording 46.6°C – potentially a new national record for June.

France’s Météo-France issued its first orange alert for nearly the entire mainland territory, leading to the temporary closure of 200 schools and recommendations to adjust working hours.

In Italy, regions including Tuscany reported a 20 per cent increase in hospital admissions, whilst Germany imposed water extraction restrictions due to fire risks as temperatures approached 40°C.

Heat dome explained

The heat dome phenomenon occurs when a high-pressure atmospheric system traps warm air like a dome, preventing cooler air masses from flowing through and blocking cloud formation. This results in prolonged periods of extreme heat, drought and elevated ground temperatures.

The ground dries out and absorbs more heat, intensifying the cycle of extreme temperatures.

“Some studies show that heat domes will become more frequent due to climate change, however there is not yet scientific consensus,” climatologist Michael Byrne told Sky News.

Global warming increases the intensity and duration of such phenomena. Europe is already 2°C warmer than pre-industrial times – the fastest-warming continent on the planet.

Health concerns

Scientists describe heatwaves as a “silent killer” because their effects are often not immediately apparent. Deaths increase significantly, particularly among elderly people, young children and pregnant women, whilst risks of premature birth also rise.

Excessive heat damages crops, destroys infrastructure including railway lines and power cables, and increases fire risks.

Madelyn Thomson of the Wellcome Trust warned that policy responses remain inadequate: “Science clearly shows the situation will worsen. The tools exist. The evidence is clear. What is missing is the sense of urgency. We must act and we must act now.”