In recent days, Europe has been experiencing very hot weather. Thus, at the end of June, in a number of regions, the thermometers rose to more than 40°C, which is a record temperature for this time of year.
Where is the abnormal heat in Europe now and how to escape it – read in the ICTV Fakty material.
Abnormal heat in Europe: which countries are suffering
The heatwave in Europe continues and spreads further, with some southern parts of the country expected to see temperatures reach 42°C (107.6°F) in the coming days as the continent heats up rapidly.
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Countries suffering from abnormal heat include:
- Portugal – The city of Mora recorded a temperature of 46.6°C, the highest temperature in the country's history during this period.
- France recorded its second hottest June since 1900, falling short of June 2003.
- Spain – Some parts of the country had their hottest June on record, with Barcelona recording its highest temperature since 1914.
Also suffering from high temperatures are: Greece, the Czech Republic, Türkiye, the Netherlands, Italy. Here the temperature has risen to 40-46°C, the heat does not subside even at night.
Hot weather in Europe has affected Germany, Poland, Austria, Great Britain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
Temperature record in Europe – consequences
Record heatwaves across the EU are taking their toll, with Florence in particular facing power outages as temperatures reached 38°C (100°F) on Tuesday.
In France, the national weather agency Météo-France has issued its highest alert level, forcing more than 1,300 schools to be partially or completely closed.
Even the top of Paris's iconic Eiffel Tower was closed to visitors.
Forest fires broke out in Turkey (Izmir province), forcing five areas in Seferihisar to be evacuated as the fire approached residential areas.
A major forest fire has also broken out south of Athens , prompting authorities to issue evacuation orders and close parts of the coastal road linking the Greek capital with Sounion, home to the ancient Temple of Poseidon, a major tourist attraction.
Italy has restricted outdoor work as record heat waves rage across Europe, while Prague Zoo has donated up to 10 tons of ice to rescue animals, with a particular focus on polar bears.
“We are just surviving, the heat continues even at night,” say local residents.
According to the EU climate monitoring agency Copernicus, this is not the first extreme heat wave.
In particular, the EU experienced a heat wave in March this year. Scientists warn that as the planet warms, extreme weather events including hurricanes, droughts, floods and heat waves will become more frequent and intense.
Last year was also the hottest on record and led to natural disasters around the world that cost more than $300bn (£219bn).
Abnormal heat in Europe and Ukraine: how to save yourself properly
The main reason for the abnormal heat is global warming. Europe is warming twice as fast as the world average.
The World Meteorological Organization (the UN agency for weather and climate change) said humanity will have to learn to live with a new normal of extreme heat waves that will become more frequent and intense over time.
A Lancet Public Health study last year found that heat-related deaths in Europe could triple by the end of the century. Today, heat-related deaths in Europe stand at 44,000.
High temperatures this summer will not bypass Ukraine. In the near future, intense heat will be observed in the southern, central regions, as well as in Zakarpattia. Here, in some places, the air will warm up from +35°C to +38°C.
In extreme heat, it is very important to learn how to behave correctly in order to protect yourself and your health.
Follow these expert tips:
- Stay in a cool place – if possible, avoid being outdoors, give preference to air-conditioned rooms. Keep windows closed during the day, and ventilate the rooms well in the evening.
- Drink plenty of water – at least 1.5–2 liters of water per day. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks, as they contribute to dehydration.
- Dress properly – wear light, bright and loose clothing made of natural fabrics. Be sure to protect your head with a scarf, panama or hat.
- Avoid strenuous exercise – don’t do heavy work or exercise outdoors during peak heat (11am to 5pm). If you must be in the sun, take frequent breaks and rest in the shade.
- Cool your body – take a cool shower several times a day. Use wet wipes or compresses on your forehead, neck, wrists.
- Monitor your body's symptoms – pay attention to signs of overheating (nausea, headache, dizziness, weakness, dry mouth, confusion). If you suspect heat stroke – immediately contact a doctor or call an ambulance.
The most vulnerable groups of people are children, the elderly and the chronically ill. They need to be especially careful during periods of extreme heat.
Remember that you cannot leave animals in the car, even for a short time – it is mortally dangerous!
