Deadly heat wave in Europe. Schools closed, dozens of drownings and the threat of blackouts

A heat dome has once again developed over Europe, bringing temperatures of 35-45°C. So far, France has been hit the hardest, but meteorologists say the unbearable heat will also reach Poland and Scandinavia by the end of the week. Professor Liz Bentley from the University of Reading warns that we will witness not only the breaking of June temperature records, but their complete destruction.

Record heat in France

According to Météo-France, yesterday was the hottest day on record in the Loire region, with thermometers in Pissos reaching 44.3°C. At more than 30 weather stations, the average daily temperature reached a record-breaking 29.8°C. Unfortunately, the scorching days are accompanied by tropical nights.

Due to the high temperatures, the Eiffel Tower has been closed, while the Louvre has shortened its opening hours for the coming days. France24 reports that classes have been cancelled in 1,800 schools, and at least 8,000 educational institutions have experienced exceptionally difficult thermal conditions.

The heat is encouraging the French to go swimming for recreation, but not all outings end safely. Since 18 June, 40 people have drowned across the country, including several teenagers. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the drownings as a tragic scourge.

The United Kingdom limits activity

The UK Met Office warns that temperatures around London could reach 39°C on Thursday, and the risk to life now extends to healthy members of the population as well. This week, hundreds of schools in England and Wales are planning timetable changes or complete closures to reduce heat stress.

Many English counties have already introduced complete bans on watering gardens, while railway operators have imposed speed restrictions because tracks are vulnerable to buckling in extreme temperatures. Experts from the UK Climate Change Committee warn that Britain’s infrastructure was built for a climate that no longer exists.

During a visit to the British capital on Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said in a speech marking Climate Action Week that London is boiling and called for intensified efforts to completely phase out fossil fuels.

Europe is sweltering

In Spain, AEMET has issued a red alert for the cities of Córdoba and Bilbao as well as the province of Cantabria, with authorities warning of an extreme health risk. In Italy, similar warnings have already been issued for 15 cities. In Parma, more than 1,000 patients affected by the heat were admitted to hospital within three days. In Hungary and Croatia, heat alerts will remain in force at least until Saturday.

Experts from Compare the Market warn that the heatwave will dramatically increase electricity demand, potentially leading to grid overloads. Historical data indicate that the highest risk of prolonged blackouts in Europe concerns Hungary, Slovenia and Greece. In the Peloponnese, electricity consumption during periods of elevated temperatures increases by as much as 40 percent.

Hot weather also in Poland

The heat dome lingering over Europe is gradually expanding to cover Poland as well. IMGW-PIB forecasts a rapid rise in temperatures to heatwave levels, reaching 35-38°C in some areas. From Saturday, thunderstorms with torrential rain, hail and wind gusts of up to 70-75 km/h are also expected. Polish meteorologists warn of heat stress, threats to health and infrastructure, and local flooding.

As early as Thursday, thermometers in western Poland may reach 32°C, while 38°C is forecast for Sunday. Even in Pomerania, which is usually cooler, temperatures will exceed 30°C over the weekend.