Record May Heatwave Hits Western Europe
Record May Heatwave Hits Western Europe
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Western Europe is experiencing an unusual May heatwave, with record temperatures reported in Portugal, France, and Italy amid growing health and environmental warnings.
In Portugal, the town of Mora recorded 40.3°C, setting a new national May temperature record. In western France, Angoulême-La Couronne reached 37.8°C, while a school in southwestern France was closed after extreme heat was recorded earlier in the week.
Italy’s Health Ministry placed Rome, Florence, Bologna, and Turin under red alert, the highest health warning level, as the heatwave spread across large parts of Europe.
Meteorologists say the extreme temperatures are linked to a “heat dome,” a high-pressure system trapping hot air from North Africa and pushing temperatures 10 to 15°C above seasonal averages.
The heat has also worsened air quality, especially in France, where authorities in Paris imposed temporary restrictions on highly polluting vehicles due to ozone pollution.
The heatwave has triggered criticism over government preparedness for extreme weather. Climate experts have called for stronger adaptation plans, including cooling systems in schools and hospitals, better flood protection, and increased water storage capacity.
UN climate officials described the heatwave as a stark reminder of the worsening climate crisis, as forecasts warn global temperatures may remain at record or near-record levels between 2026 and 2030.
