LONDON — An unusually early heat wave sweeping across Western Europe has shattered long-standing temperature records, strained public infrastructure and been linked to multiple deaths as authorities issue warnings over dangerous conditions.
The United Kingdom recorded its hottest May temperatures in more than a century, with London’s Kew Gardens reaching 35.1 degrees Celsius (95.2 Fahrenheit), surpassing a record set only a day earlier and exceeding the previous benchmark established in 1922, according to national weather officials.
France also experienced extreme temperatures, with some regions approaching 36 degrees Celsius (97 Fahrenheit) as a “heat dome” trapped hot air over parts of Western Europe. Officials activated weather alerts and urged residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat.
Several deaths were reported during the heat wave. French authorities said at least seven people died from causes related to the extreme temperatures, including drownings and heat-related incidents during sporting events. Britain also reported multiple drownings as people sought relief from the heat in rivers, lakes and coastal areas.
Governments Issue Health Warnings
Authorities across the region warned that the unusually early arrival of summer-like conditions posed heightened risks, particularly for older adults, children and people with existing medical conditions.
The U.K. Health Security Agency issued an amber heat-health alert covering much of England, while France expanded weather warnings to dozens of administrative regions.
Transportation networks and emergency services also faced growing pressure. In London, rail services were disrupted after reports of smoke on tracks during the intense heat, while firefighters in Scotland battled a large grass fire near Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat.
In France, passengers aboard a non-air-conditioned train traveling from Paris to Nice reportedly struggled with extreme temperatures after the train stopped for several hours, prompting emergency assistance.
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Climate Concerns Intensify
Meteorological agencies described the heat event as exceptional for May, with temperatures in some areas running more than 10 degrees Celsius above seasonal averages. France’s weather service said the country activated its national May heat-warning system for the first time since its creation in 2004.
Scientists and climate researchers have increasingly linked the growing frequency and intensity of European heat waves to climate change. Recent years have brought repeated temperature extremes, droughts and wildfire conditions across the continent.
Spain and Italy also faced unusually high temperatures, with forecasts in parts of Spain nearing 40 degrees Celsius. Some Italian regional authorities imposed restrictions on outdoor work during peak afternoon heat.
The current weather system is expected to continue affecting parts of Europe through the week, though authorities said the full human and economic impact remains unclear.
