France, Italy and Spain have issued red heat alerts as a severe heatwave pushes temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in several regions. The British Foreign Office has updated its travel advice, warning UK nationals to take precautions against extreme heat and to follow local safety guidance.
In France, Météo-France has placed 15 departments on red alert, the highest level, with peaks of up to 42 degrees Celsius expected in the southeast. The authorities have activated emergency cooling centres and urged vulnerable people to stay indoors. Schools in affected areas may close or adapt their hours.
Italy’s health ministry has issued red alerts for 13 cities, including Rome, Florence and Bologna, where temperatures could reach 42 degrees Celsius. The ministry advises avoiding direct sun between 11am and 6pm and staying hydrated. Several regions have opened public air-conditioned spaces.
Spain’s state weather agency, AEMET, has declared red alerts for parts of the southern Andalusia region, with highs of 44 degrees Celsius forecast for Seville and Cordoba. The government has activated a national heat plan and restricted outdoor labour during peak hours.
The heatwave, driven by a high-pressure system over the Mediterranean, is expected to persist until midweek. Climate scientists link such extremes to global warming, with Europe warming twice as fast as the global average. The World Meteorological Organization warns that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.
British travellers are advised to check the latest Foreign Office guidance, register with local consulates if needed, and carry sufficient water and sun protection. The UK Met Office has not issued corresponding warnings for the British Isles, but tourists returning from affected zones are reminded of the risks.
Local media report increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and heatstroke. In France, authorities have extended pool and beach hours to provide relief. In Italy, water restrictions are in place in some areas.
This event follows a pattern of extreme heat across southern Europe in recent summers, including the record-breaking 2022 heatwave that caused over 60,000 excess deaths. The current alerts underscore the need for robust public health responses and long-term adaptation strategies.
