A powerful heatwave has swept across large parts of Southern and Central Europe in recent days, sending temperatures soaring well above seasonal averages and prompting weather warnings in multiple countries.
Spain, Italy, France, Hungary, and several Balkan nations have all been affected by the intense spell of hot weather, with forecasters warning that the heat could persist for several more days.
In southern Spain, temperatures have approached 39-40°C, with some forecasts indicating even higher readings in inland areas of Andalusia, including Granada and neighboring provinces.
Spanish meteorologists have issued heat alerts across much of the country as the nation’s first official heatwave of 2026 continues. According to Spain’s weather agency AEMET, some regions could see temperatures exceeding 40°C.
Meanwhile, Hungary has issued heat warnings for parts of the country, including the Budapest region, where temperatures are expected to remain significantly above normal for late June.
HungaroMet, Hungary’s national meteorological service, has warned residents about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures. By the end of this week and into the next, temperatures in Budapest are expected to reach at least 35°C in the shade.
What’s Causing the Heat?
Meteorologists attribute the heatwave to a large area of high pressure, often referred to as a “heat dome,” that has settled over Western and Central Europe.
The system is drawing exceptionally warm air northward from North Africa and the Sahara Desert while suppressing cloud formation.
As a result, strong sunshine and clear skies are allowing temperatures to climb day after day. Experts describe the pattern as an African anticyclone that is trapping heat over much of the continent.
Scientists also note that climate change is increasing both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves across Europe, making extreme temperature events more common than in previous decades.
How Long Will It Last?
Current forecasts suggest that the heatwave is likely to continue through at least the middle of the week in much of Southern and Western Europe.
Spain’s national weather service expects elevated temperatures to persist until at least Thursday, while France, Italy, and neighboring countries continue to monitor the situation closely.
Some areas could experience several consecutive days with temperatures above 35°C and unusually warm nights, providing little relief after sunset.
Travel Disruptions and Health Concerns
Authorities across Europe are urging residents and tourists to take precautions. In France, heat alerts have been issued for dozens of departments, while transport operators have warned that extreme temperatures can affect rail infrastructure.
Germany has also issued heat warnings, and some outdoor events have been disrupted because of the weather.
Health officials are particularly concerned about older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and outdoor workers, who face a greater risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke during prolonged periods of extreme heat.
Safety Advice
Authorities recommend that people:
- Drink water regularly, even if they do not feel thirsty.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Stay in shaded or air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Use sunscreen and protective hats outdoors.
- Check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals.
- Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
A Sign of Summers to Come?
The current heatwave arrives only weeks after Europe experienced an unusually early spell of extreme temperatures in May.
Climate researchers have warned that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense across the continent.
As Europe enters the heart of summer, forecasters will be closely monitoring whether the current heat dome weakens or becomes the first of several major heatwaves this season.
Sources:
- Reuters
- AEMET (Spanish State Meteorological Agency)
- HungaroMet (Hungarian Meteorological Service)
- Copernicus Climate Change Service
- The Guardian
- UK Met Office
