Historic heat wave continues across Southern Europe
Southern Europe remains gripped by an extreme and prolonged heat wave, with temperatures exceeding 46°C (115°F) in several regions. This intense and unrelenting heat is setting multiple national records, as early July begins under a scorching sun.
Record-breaking temperatures in Portugal and Spain
Over the weekend, Huelva, in southern Spain, hit a blistering 46°C (114.8°F) on June 28, while Mora, in Portugal, saw the mercury climb to 46.6°C (115.9°F). On the same day, more than ten weather stations across Portugal recorded temperatures above 44°C (111.2°F).
Meanwhile, parts of France reached 42°C (107.6°F), as the heat extends well beyond the Mediterranean basin. The oppressive warmth has been relentless both day and night, with nighttime lows offering little relief. In Larache, Morocco, the temperature barely dropped below 29.9°C (85.8°F) overnight — an unusually high minimum for the region.
Northern Europe begins to feel the heat
This dangerous wave is pushing northward. Germany is expected to see temperatures peak at 38°C (100.4°F) by Wednesday, as the hot air mass continues to expand across central Europe.
Wildfire threat intensifies in Mediterranean countries
The environmental impact is already visible. Wildfire risks are surging across Portugal, while meteorologists report that the surface temperature of the Mediterranean Sea has reached a record average of 26.01°C (78.8°F) — an anomaly that could further destabilize local ecosystems and amplify regional weather extremes.
African heat fuels Europe’s extreme temperatures
According to Meteorologist Alexandra Giroux, this historic heatwave, stretching from Morocco all the way to the United Kingdom, is being driven by a persistent high-pressure ridge. This ridge is pulling hot air masses northward from the Sahara, creating widespread temperature anomalies.
Slight relief possible later this week
Tuesday and Wednesday are forecast to bring even higher temperatures across parts of Southern and Central Europe. However, there are signs of a gradual weakening of the ridge by the end of the week, which could allow more temperate air to filter into the region. Despite this, temperatures will likely remain above seasonal norms, especially in Eastern Europe, where the core of the heat is expected to shift by Sunday.
Public health concerns grow amid prolonged heat
With no immediate relief in sight, public health authorities across Southern Europe continue to emphasize hydration and caution against prolonged outdoor activity during peak hours.
