Europe Heatwave Kills Eight, Disrupts Power and Evacuations

A record-breaking heat wave fueled by a persistent heat dome and marine heat in the Mediterranean has gripped Europe, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in multiple countries. At least eight people have died across Spain, France, Italy, and Turkey, and thousands have been evacuated from wildfire zones in Greece, Spain, and Turkey. The extreme heat has triggered deadly wildfires, health crises, and the temporary shutdown of nuclear reactors due to overheated river water used for cooling. Several countries, including Spain, Portugal, and France, have set new temperature records, and the heat wave has stressed power systems, reduced agricultural yields, and prompted widespread red alerts and emergency measures. Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and severity of such events to climate change, warning of escalating threats to public health, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Urban areas face particular risks, prompting calls for more green spaces and artificial shading to help mitigate extreme heat impacts.