Five ways Europe's heat-wave summer is hot, hot, hot
Temperatures have been off the charts this year in Europe, the continent warming faster than any other continent. Here are five reasons why Europe's summer of 2026 will go down in the history of climate change:
In Europe's scorching summer of 2026, temperatures soared to unprecedented levels, with some areas seeing 40°C (104°F) for the first time since records began in 2000. This extreme heat affected millions of people across the continent, with regions in Germany, France, Spain, and Cyprus suffering through relentless heatwaves. For instance, 9 million people in Germany, particularly south and west of Berlin and around Frankfurt, experienced their first-ever 40°C days, as did 4 million in France in eastern France and Brittany.
Spain and Cyprus also broke records, with nearly 6 million residents in Spain and Cyprus enduring more than 55 days of temperatures above 35°C (95°F). Meanwhile, Sardinia in Italy recorded a blistering 48.4°C (119°F) on July 19, potentially setting a new European heat record. However, not all places saw relief at night. In 2026, parts of France and Italy experienced nights that didn't drop below 25°C (77°F), leaving many feeling the heat even after sunset.
This unprecedented heat wave left its mark on millions, with several regions enduring prolonged periods of extreme temperatures throughout the summer.
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