A relentless heat wave has swept across Europe, pushing temperatures to record-breaking highs and testing the resilience of locals and tourists alike in some of the continent’s most beloved cities and regions.
Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, and Greece are enduring extreme conditions, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in many areas, triggering health alerts, wildfires, and significant disruptions for visitors. The heat, attributed to a “heat dome,” is reshaping the summer travel experience across southern Europe.
In Spain, the southern town of El Granado recorded a staggering 46°C, potentially setting a new national record for June, according to AEMET, Spain’s meteorological agency. Seville and other southern cities have seen temperatures reach 42°C, prompting red alerts and warnings to avoid strenuous activity.
Italy’s Ministry of Health placed 21 cities, including Rome and Naples, under its highest-level “red” alert, indicating emergency conditions posing risks to even healthy individuals. In Greece, temperatures nearing 40°C have fuelled wildfires south of Athens, forcing evacuations and road closures near the iconic Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. Portugal’s Beja region is forecast to hit 44°C, while Lisbon braces for 42°C, with the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere issuing alerts for rural wildfires. France’s Marseille has seen temperatures approach 40°C, with free access to public swimming pools offered to provide relief.
Rome has introduced air-conditioned museum tours for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, to cope with the heat.
In Greece, the closure of coastal roads and evacuation orders near Athens have disrupted travel itineraries, particularly for those visiting historic sites. A tragic reminder of the heat’s dangers came with reports of a tourist succumbing to heatstroke in Majorca, underscoring the risks for unprepared visitors.
Authorities across affected regions are implementing measures to protect residents and visitors. In Italy, Sicily and Liguria have banned outdoor work during peak heat hours, with trade unions pushing for nationwide restrictions. Barcelona has established “heat shelters” accessible within a five-minute walk, while cities like Paris and London are promoting green spaces and urban tree planting to mitigate heat.
London’s temperatures are expected to reach 35°C, coinciding with the start of Wimbledon, potentially making it the hottest opening day in the tournament’s history.Economic and Environmental Concerns
The heat wave’s intensity, arriving earlier than the typical July and August peaks, has raised alarms about the broader implications of climate change. Scientists note that heat waves are becoming more frequent and severe, with a Lancet study warning that heat-related deaths in Europe could triple by 2100 without significant action.
Southern Europe’s tourism sector, already strained by overtourism, faces challenges as visitors shift to cooler months or destinations. However, some regions, like Spain, report a 20% increase in winter tourism compared to 2019, suggesting a potential levelling of seasonal travel patterns.
The heat wave is expected to persist until midweek, with little overnight relief due to “tropical nights” where temperatures remain above 20°C. As Europe grapples with this early summer scorcher, experts urge travellers to plan activities for cooler hours, seek shaded or indoor attractions, and stay informed about local weather warnings.
