France, Italy and Spain have issued red heat alerts as a severe heatwave is expected to push temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in several regions. The alerts, the highest level on the national warning systems, indicate a danger to life from the extreme conditions.
In France, Météo-France has placed 19 departments on red alert, including the southern Rhône Valley and parts of the Mediterranean coast. Temperatures are forecast to reach 42C in some areas. The French health ministry has activated emergency protocols, including opening cooling centres and extending park hours.
Italy's civil protection agency has issued red alerts for 14 cities, including Rome, Florence and Bologna. The Italian health ministry warned that the elderly, children and those with pre-existing conditions are most at risk. Local authorities have been instructed to provide assistance to vulnerable populations.
Spain's state meteorological agency AEMET has declared red warnings for large parts of the interior and the Ebro valley. Temperatures in Seville and Córdoba could exceed 44C. The Spanish government has urged people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
In the United Kingdom, the Met Office has activated its heatwave contingency plans following forecasts of sustained high temperatures next week. While no red alerts have been issued, the UK Health Security Agency has raised its heat-health alert to level 3, indicating a 90 per cent probability of heatwave conditions. The Department of Health has urged care homes and hospitals to review their heatwave plans.
The extreme weather is driven by a plume of hot air from North Africa, a phenomenon that has become more frequent and intense in recent years. Climate scientists point to a warming planet as a key factor. The European heatwave of 2022 caused an estimated 61,000 excess deaths across the continent.
National rail operators in France and Italy have warned of potential delays and cancellations due to the risk of tracks buckling. In Spain, the energy grid operator has issued a warning about increased demand for air conditioning.
The alerts are expected to remain in place until at least the middle of next week. Authorities advise the public to check on neighbours, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and seek shade during peak hours.
