Intensifying heatwave sends temperatures soaring across Europe, putting millions at risk

Paris, August 14 — Millions of Europeans, particularly in France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, endured another wave of extreme heat as the continent faced its latest heatwave. Temperatures climbed over 35C in several countries, affecting over 135 million people. Bailey Williamson, a pharmacist in the UK, described the heat as unbearable, worried about hospital patients.

The UK marked its fifth-hottest day on record with temperatures reaching 38.1C in Kew Gardens, London. Williamson emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that patients in hospitals were in dire condition. Hospitals reported an increase in heat stroke cases, and the NHS struggled to cope with the surge in patients. In France, temperatures rose to 38C in Paris, prompting a heatwave alert.

Italy was expected to see similar conditions affecting over 29 million residents, mainly along the west coast and in the Po Valley. Spain also braced for high temperatures, with 25 million people in Spain affected, according to Spain's Aemet weather agency. The UK is predicted to see its hottest summer ever, with temperatures expected to exceed 30C for nearly three out of five residents, excluding Turkey.

Scientists attribute the worsening heatwaves to human-induced climate change, leading to more frequent and intense wildfires, contributing to thousands of deaths. European weather agencies predicted temperatures to surpass 30C for around 340 million people, based on forecasts and population projections.