Europe's heat waves scorch 80 million with 40 C heat

Europe grappled with scorching heat waves in summer 2026, as temperatures soared above 40°C (104°F) for 80 million people from mid-June to mid-August, according to official data analyzed by AFP. This heatwave impacted areas not accustomed to such extreme weather, exacerbating droughts, wildfires, and crop failures. Over 25,000 excess deaths were reported, with Germany, France, and Spain bearing the brunt of the mortality.

The June–July period in Western Europe set a new record for the hottest start to summer, as reported by the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service. In France, 30 million residents experienced temperatures surpassing 40°C (104°F) at least once, while 23 million in Spain and 8 million in Germany and Italy faced the same conditions. Such extreme temperatures are rare in many of these regions, with buildings, including hospitals, schools, and care homes, lacking cooling systems.

The heat was both intense and prolonged. France endured temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F) for 21 days, five times longer than in the summer of 2022. Even countries typically spared from extreme heat, like the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Poland, experienced temperatures surpassing 35°C (95°F). In the Alps, a record number of rockfalls occurred due to melting ice in cracks, caused by the extraordinary heat.

German authorities reported a record 14,000 heat-related deaths, along with 4,500 in Spain and 7,300 in France. While the figures may rise, the prolonged heat contributed to droughts, wildfires, and crop losses. Over 490 million Europeans, around 80% of the population, experienced temperatures above 35°C (95°F) during this period.