Exceptionally early heat wave shatters records and brings deaths in Europe
The United Kingdom broke its record Monday for the hottest temperature recorded in May, after a heat wave was declared in several parts of the country.
www.nbcnews.comEurope is in the middle of an unusually early and severe heat wave, with record May temperatures being broken in the UK and France and health alerts issued across several countries.[1][3]
What is happening
The UK recorded its hottest May day ever at 34.8 C in London’s Kew Gardens, and France also saw its hottest May day on record, with temperatures above 30 C in many regions. Spain is expected to face even hotter conditions later this week, with some areas potentially reaching around 40 C.[3][1]
Why it matters
The heat has already had deadly consequences, with reports of heat-related deaths in France, including fatalities during amateur sports events in Paris and Lyon. The UK’s Health Security Agency issued its first amber health alert of the year, warning of increased risk, especially for older people during the hottest parts of the day.[1][3]
Broader impacts
The weather pattern is being described as a heat dome, which traps hot air and keeps temperatures elevated for days or longer. There are also knock-on effects such as wildfire risk, water shortages in parts of southeast England, and strain on power and public services.[1]