A severe heatwave has gripped Europe, with Spain setting a new national record for June, reaching a scorching 46°C in the town of El Granado near the Portuguese border.
The Spanish state weather agency, AEMET, confirmed the record-high temperature.
*Extreme heatwave sweeps across Europe*
Dozens of towns and cities across Spain reported temperatures above 40°C, while neighboring Portugal and France also sweltered.
In Greece, temperatures dropped after a three-day heatwave, but the country’s civil protection agency declared the highest fire danger level due to the combination of heat and wind.
Experts warn that the sustained heat poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The heatwave has also led to wildfires in southern France, affecting 400 hectares of land and forcing the evacuation of a campsite.
Meteorologists attribute the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves to human-driven climate change.
According to AEMET, the number of heatwaves in June has increased significantly, from two between 1975 and 2000 to nine between 2000 and 2024.
This year’s temperatures approached August levels as early as late May, highlighting the urgent need for adaptation and mitigation strategies.
*“Regional Impact”*
The heatwave has had a significant impact on several European countries, including:
– *Spain*: Record-breaking temperatures, increased risk of wildfires
– *France*: Temperatures expected to reach 40°C in Paris, wildfires in southern regions
– *Greece*: Highest fire danger level declared, major wildfires reported
– *Portugal*: Temperatures reached around 40°C in the Algarve regio
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