Record-Breaking Heat Waves Sweep Southern Europe, Prompt Warnings of Wildfires and Health Risks

Strategic Insights -

Severe heat waves have hit Southern Europe, with temperatures soaring above 40 C (104 F) in Italy, Spain, Greece, and Portugal. Local authorities have issued warnings against wildfires and advised against physical activity during the hottest hours of the day. Experts attribute the rising frequency and intensity of these heatwaves to climate change, warning that such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two-thirds of Portugal were on high alert on Sunday for extreme heat and wildfires, with temperatures expected to top 42 C (107 F) in Lisbon.
  • Italian trade unions pushed the government to expand measures banning outdoor work activities during the hottest hours of the day, with a few regions planning to implement such measures.
  • The Italian Health Ministry placed 21 out of 27 monitored cities under its highest heat alert, including top holiday destinations like Rome, Milan, and Naples.
  • A large wildfire broke out south of Athens, forcing evacuations and road closures, with Greek authorities deploying 130 firefighters, 12 planes, and 12 helicopters to battle the blaze.
  • Spain recorded temperatures above seasonal averages, prompting health alerts and safety recommendations from authorities, with the national meteorological service Aemet predicting that June will break yet another record.
  • A Lancet Public Health study published last year highlighted the increasing risk of heat-related deaths because of climate change, predicting that heat-related deaths could more than quadruple by mid-century under current climate policies.

Statistics:

  • Temperatures above 40 C (104 F) have been recorded in Italy, Spain, Greece, and Portugal.
  • 21 out of 27 monitored cities in Italy were placed under the highest heat alert by the Italian Health Ministry.
  • 130 firefighters, 12 planes, and 12 helicopters were deployed by Greek authorities to battle the wildfire south of Athens.

Sources:

  • The Associated Press (https://apnews.com/article/portugal-housing-protest-weather-184b61e5612d9ec26419d2c4d6fc7784)
  • Lancet Public Health (https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2468-2667(21)00145-4/fulltext)