Red heat alerts have been issued across several southern European countries, with temperatures expected to reach 40C in parts of Spain, France, and Italy. The alerts, the highest level of warning, indicate a high risk of health impacts for the general population, not just vulnerable groups.
Meteorological agencies in France and Spain raised the alert level on Tuesday as a heatwave originating in North Africa moves northwards. Italy's civil protection authority issued red alerts for 12 cities, including Rome, Florence, and Bologna. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere also warned of extreme temperatures in the Algarve region.
The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice for affected areas, urging British nationals to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during peak hours, and follow local guidance. Tour operators including TUI and Jet2 have issued statements advising customers to take precautions.
This heatwave follows a pattern of increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events in the region. Last July, a similar heatwave caused excess deaths in Spain and Italy, according to a study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. The current alerts are expected to remain in place until at least Friday, with temperatures forecast to exceed seasonal averages by 10 degrees or more.
Public health officials have activated emergency measures, including the opening of cooling centres in major cities and extended hours for public swimming pools. In France, the Ministry of Health has urged residents to check on elderly neighbours and ensure access to air-conditioned spaces.
The Foreign Office has not yet advised against travel but recommends checking the latest weather updates and registering with local authorities if in affected areas. Travellers with underlying health conditions should consult their GP before travelling.
The heatwave underscores the challenges posed by climate change to summer tourism in the Mediterranean, a region that attracted over 300 million tourists in 2023. The economic impact of such weather events is yet to be quantified, but analysts expect disruptions to travel and outdoor activities.
