An unseasonal heatwave has gripped Western Europe, with France, Spain, and the United Kingdom facing record-setting temperatures for May. In France, over 350 towns, predominantly in the western part of the country, have reported their highest-ever May temperatures, peaking at 37.1°C in the south-western Landes region. Similarly, the UK saw its May temperature record shattered as 34.8°C was recorded at Kew Gardens in London.
Weather specialists have noted that in many parts of Europe, temperatures are currently 12°C to 13°C above the usual averages for this time of year. The heatwave is expected to persist for several more days, with forecasts predicting temperatures in Spain could soar to 40°C later this week. A phenomenon known as a heat dome, where hot air from Morocco is trapped under a strong high-pressure system, is responsible for these extreme conditions in France. Authorities have emphasized that such events are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change.
In response to the scorching temperatures, France has issued high-temperature alerts for 31 departments, with some under the second-highest warning level. This marks the first activation of France’s national heat warning system in May since its inception in 2004. In several French towns, temperatures have surpassed 35°C, and in Paris, the mercury has nearly hit 33°C. Tragedy struck during a 10-kilometre race near Paris, where a participant died from a suspected heart attack attributed to the extreme heat, and several others remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Spain is also enduring sweltering conditions, with southern areas already experiencing temperatures as high as 38°C. Meteorologists have cautioned that many regions may face “tropical nights,” where temperatures remain above 20°C even after sunset. This early onset of heatwaves across Europe is seen as a result of long-term climate change, with experts noting a trend towards more frequent and earlier extreme weather events.