A major heatwave is gripping Southern Europe, pushing temperatures in Italy, Spain, and Greece above 40°C (104°F). This extreme heat is raising serious concerns about the risk of wildfires, prompting authorities to issue warnings and take preventative measures.
Experts are linking the increasing frequency and intensity of these heatwaves to climate change. They warn that such extreme weather events will become increasingly common in the region. The impact is being felt across the board, with locals and tourists alike seeking refuge from the scorching temperatures.
Portugal is particularly hard hit, with two-thirds of the country under high alert for extreme heat and wildfires. Lisbon is expected to see temperatures exceeding 42°C (107°F). Italy has responded by planning to ban outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day in several regions, with trade unions pushing for nationwide implementation of similar measures. The Italian Health Ministry has placed 21 cities under its highest heat alert.
In Rome, tourists and residents alike are seeking shade near iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, utilizing umbrellas and public water fountains to stay cool. Similar scenes of heat-related coping strategies are being reported in Milan and Naples. Greece is also on high wildfire alert due to the extreme heat, with a large wildfire already breaking out south of Athens, necessitating evacuations and road closures.
Spain is experiencing similarly high temperatures, with Seville reaching 42°C (107°F) and other southern and central regions also feeling the brunt of the heat. The national meteorological service, Aemet, has already declared that June 2025 will likely be the hottest June on record for the country.
The intense heat is impacting daily life, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Authorities are advising people to avoid strenuous activity during peak hours and to stay well-hydrated. A recent Lancet Public Health study underscored the growing threat of heat-related deaths due to climate change, predicting a more than fourfold increase by mid-century under current climate policies. While cold-related deaths currently outnumber heat-related deaths, the study emphasizes that rising temperatures will negate the benefits of milder winters, resulting in a substantial net increase in heat-related mortality.
This extreme weather event serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of addressing climate change and its far-reaching consequences.
