Europe Braces for Fifth Heat Wave as Temperatures Near 42C

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Europe is bracing for another round of intense heat this week as a strengthening heat dome pushes temperatures sharply higher across western, central and southern parts of the continent, while persistently dry conditions raise the risk of wildfires.

According to The New York Times' report, the latest heat wave is expected to initially affect parts of France, Spain and Italy before shifting toward Central Europe, where temperatures are forecast to rise significantly in Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic.

High-temperature warnings were already in place across much of western, central and southern Europe on Sunday. Red-level warnings, the highest category, covered parts of western and southern Italy and western Croatia.

The heat wave will be Europe's fifth since May, according to the latest forecasts. A broad area of high pressure is intensifying over the continent, trapping hot air and limiting rainfall.

Italy has already experienced several days of elevated temperatures. The country's Health Ministry placed all 27 cities monitored under its national heat surveillance system on red alert on Thursday.

The Italian Air Force Meteorological Service said temperatures could reach 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Sardinia, Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria and Sicily. Extreme heat is expected to persist across western, central and southern Italy through the week.

France is also preparing for a sharp increase in temperatures. Météo-France said the new heat wave would begin Tuesday, with temperatures expected to reach 35°C across much of the country between Wednesday and Friday. Some areas could approach 40°C.

The French weather service warned that the heat would further dry already parched soils and vegetation, increasing the potential for wildfires.

Spain could experience some of the most extreme temperatures. AEMET, the country's national weather service, forecast temperatures above 35°C across large parts of the country, with temperatures potentially reaching 42°C in southern Spain by Wednesday.

AEMET also warned that wildfire danger could reach very high or extreme levels as the heat intensifies.

Britain is expected to see temperatures rise from Tuesday, with the Met Office forecasting highs of up to 36°C in parts of East Anglia and southeast England by Thursday. If temperatures reach 35°C or higher, it would mark the fourth consecutive month in which Britain has recorded such heat.

The wildfire threat extends well beyond the countries facing the highest temperatures.

The European Forest Fire Information System has forecast “very extreme” fire conditions — its highest fire-danger category — through at least Wednesday in parts of southern Britain and northwestern France, as well as a broad area stretching from the Alps to the Balkans.

Much of the Iberian Peninsula, central and southern France and parts of the western Balkans are also facing extreme fire conditions through midweek.

The heat will coincide with a total solar eclipse on Wednesday, which is expected to pass over parts of Greenland, Iceland and Spain. AEMET has warned that Spain will face very high or extreme wildfire danger on the same day.

Europe Is Warming Faster

The latest heat wave comes amid a broader warming trend across Europe.

While determining how much a specific heat wave is influenced by climate change requires a formal attribution study, scientists have established that heat waves globally are becoming hotter, more frequent and longer-lasting. Europe is warming faster than any other continent.

In 2025, almost the entire continent experienced above-average temperatures. Researchers estimate that Europe has recorded tens of thousands of heat-related deaths annually in recent years.

The continent's buildings and infrastructure are also not always designed for prolonged extreme heat. Many homes, schools and workplaces were built for a cooler climate and can retain heat during hot weather.

In Britain, many buildings were specifically designed to keep warmth inside, making them particularly difficult to cool during heat waves. Air conditioning is also not a straightforward solution, with installation becoming politically contentious in France and high energy costs discouraging widespread use in Britain.

Even in Mediterranean cities accustomed to hot summers, modern construction can make some buildings harder to cool. Traditional features such as courtyards, shutters and light-colored stone can help reduce heat, but newer buildings often use materials and designs that retain warmth.

How to Stay Cool

During periods of extreme heat, staying hydrated and keeping the body cool are among the most important ways to reduce heat-related discomfort and illness.

People can close curtains or cover windows exposed to afternoon sunlight during the day to prevent heat from entering their homes. Windows can be opened at night when outdoor temperatures fall, while fans can help circulate air.

Cooling the skin with room-temperature or cool water, using a damp cloth on the forehead and taking a cool shower can also help lower body temperature.

For those who need to spend time outdoors, drinking cool liquids and carrying chilled water can help maintain hydration. People exercising in hot conditions can use cold water to cool their heads, while swimming can provide both exercise and relief from the heat.

Visitors exploring cities during the heat wave can also seek cooler indoor spaces such as museums, cathedrals and underground exhibitions.

Some European cities have established designated cooling spaces. Barcelona operates climate shelters, while Paris provides public drinking fountains. London has a Cool Spaces map to help residents find places to escape the heat.

People should also watch for possible signs of heat stroke, including dizziness, rapid pulse, nausea, headache and fainting. Symptoms can vary, and severe or worsening symptoms require prompt medical attention.