Authorities across southern Europe are preparing for the first significant heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach up to 42°C in some regions over the coming days.
Spain, Portugal, Greece and France have all issued public warnings and activated emergency measures in anticipation of the extreme conditions, which could pose serious risks to health and increase the likelihood of wildfires.
In Spain, the national meteorological agency has issued special alerts for parts of the south of the country. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could climb to 43°C, with persistently high readings both during the day and overnight. The agency warned that the extreme heat could endanger vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with chronic health conditions, as well as those exposed to prolonged sunlight.
Madrid’s Ministry of Health has advised residents to avoid direct sun exposure, remain hydrated, and monitor the condition of at-risk individuals. Similar warnings have been disseminated throughout Portugal, where on Sunday, 29 June, approximately two-thirds of the country is under a heightened state of readiness due to the risk of temperatures reaching 43°C and associated wildfire threats.
In France, the local government in Marseille, where the mercury is approaching 40°C, has responded by waiving entry fees to public swimming pools, offering residents a safe means of cooling down. Authorities elsewhere in the country are also monitoring fire risk levels, particularly in forested and coastal areas.
In Italy, regional administrations in Sicily and Liguria have banned outdoor work during peak heat hours to protect workers from heat-related illness. Labour unions are urging the national government to adopt the measure more broadly across the country.
Meanwhile, in Greece, a major wildfire erupted south of Athens on Thursday as temperatures approached 40°C. The incident prompted the evacuation of local residents and the closure of a section of the coastal road leading to Cape Sounion, where the Temple of Poseidon, a popular archaeological site, is located.
Meteorologists have stated that the severity and duration of current and projected heatwaves reflect broader climate trends. January 2025 was officially recorded as the warmest January since records began, raising further concerns among climatologists about the acceleration of global warming.
Researchers have also pointed to less obvious impacts of extreme heat. According to a recent study, rising temperatures are contributing to a measurable decline in the spiciness of chilli peppers, attributed to environmental stress factors affecting plant chemistry. The same study estimates that 65% of the increase in global average temperatures is linked to emissions and activities of the wealthiest 10% of the world’s population.
As the summer progresses, European authorities are urging vigilance and preparation, particularly in regions with a history of heat-related incidents and wildfires. Emergency services in several countries remain on standby, and governments have reiterated calls for the public to follow official guidance and take precautionary measures to reduce the health and safety risks associated with the ongoing heatwave.
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