Europe Endures First Major 2025 Heatwave with Temperatures Up to 44C

Europe is experiencing its first major heatwave of the 2025 summer, with temperatures soaring up to 42-44°C across southern countries including Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and Greece. Authorities have issued heat and fire warnings due to the extreme temperatures, which are driving risks of heatstroke, wildfires, and disruption to daily life, such as bans on outdoor work during peak heat hours in parts of Italy. Public health advisories emphasize hydration, sun avoidance, and special care for vulnerable populations. Cities like Marseille have responded by opening public swimming pools free of charge, while emergency services in Spain remain on standby for heat-related illnesses. The heatwave, fueled by hot air from North Africa, is occurring earlier than usual and is linked by scientists to the broader trend of climate change, which is making such extreme weather events more frequent and intense. Evacuations have been ordered in wildfire-affected areas near Athens, highlighting the immediate dangers posed by the combination of heat and dry conditions.