Heatwave Sweeps Europe: Spain Sets New Temperature Record

Several countries across Europe, including Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, and the United Kingdom, are currently under warnings for extremely high temperatures. According to reports from EFE News Agency, Portugal is expected to experience highs of up to 44 degrees Celsius in the Beja district, located near the border with Spain's Extremadura and Andalusia.

In Spain, the national meteorological agency, Aemet, has issued heat advisories for nearly the entire country, anticipating temperatures to surpass 40 degrees Celsius in the southern and southwestern regions. A new record for the month of June was set on Saturday, with temperatures reaching 46 degrees Celsius in the village of El Granado in Huelva, Andalusia. This surpasses the previous June record of 45.2 degrees, which was recorded in Sevilla in 1965, as reported by El Correo.

The highest temperature ever recorded in Spain, 47.4 degrees Celsius, was noted in the southern region four years ago. Several areas, including Córdoba, Sevilla, and Badajoz, have already reported temperatures significantly above 40 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the night leading into Sunday was exceptionally warm, with local temperatures on Gran Canaria not dropping below 30 degrees Celsius.

The Swedish Foreign Ministry has issued alerts for Swedish travelers ahead of the weekend. Observations indicate that outdoor activity is minimal, with individuals, particularly children, remaining indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, many are opting to go out in the evenings to avoid the intense heat.

In Italy, several regions are contemplating restrictions on certain work activities during the peak heat hours. Regions such as Lazio, Tuscany, Calabria, Apulia, and Umbria are among those considering implementing measures in response to the escalating temperatures, as reported by Euronews.

Tourists are feeling the impact of the heat as well. A British visitor in Rome described feeling faint due to the oppressive heat after traveling from a similarly humid Verona, illustrating the widespread discomfort caused by the soaring temperatures.

According to Hilda Westberg, a meteorologist at SMHI, heatwaves typically develop when warm, humid air from the ocean accumulates and becomes trapped. This results in a downward motion that forces clouds and cooler air away, leading to increased surface temperatures and drying of the ground. This phenomenon is more frequently observed in the United States than in Europe.

While Sweden is not expected to experience extreme heat, a slight increase in temperatures across southern Sweden is anticipated early next week, with readings expected to be slightly above normal.

The public in affected areas across Europe is advised to avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours and to stay hydrated, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children.