Europe’s heatwave is tightening its grip on the continent, with forecasters warning that parts of Germany and Poland could see temperatures climb above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) this weekend after days of blistering heat across western and southern Europe.
Governments are expanding heat warnings as hospitals treat more heat related illnesses, transport operators adjust services and firefighters prepare for a higher risk of wildfires. Officials are urging people to stay out of the midday sun, drink plenty of water and check on elderly relatives, neighbors and others who may be especially vulnerable.
After scorching France, Spain, Italy and Portugal earlier this week, the hottest air is now moving into central and northern Europe. Meteorologists say some areas of Germany and Poland could experience their hottest weather of the year.
The heat is also affecting major sporting events. Organizers of the Formula One Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg have declared a heat hazard for Sunday’s race, the first such warning of the season. Temperatures are expected to reach the low 30s Celsius, nearly 10 degrees warmer than normal for the circuit, prompting officials to advise fans to stay hydrated and seek shade.
The prolonged heat is beginning to ripple through Europe’s economy. Farmers are watching crops with growing concern as dry conditions threaten grains, fruit, vegetables and vineyards, raising fears of smaller harvests and higher food prices if the weather persists.
Tourism is also being affected. Walking tours in cities such as Rome, Paris and Madrid have shifted to cooler hours, while museums and other air-conditioned attractions are attracting more visitors. Some outdoor sites have reduced operating hours because of the heat.
Transport operators have slowed trains on some routes to protect tracks from heat damage, while road crews monitor highways and airlines advise passengers to check for schedule changes. Electricity demand has surged as homes and businesses rely more heavily on air conditioning, while lower river levels are creating challenges for power generation and cargo shipping.
The same weather pattern has brought severe storms elsewhere. In Russia’s Sverdlovsk region, a tornado injured 16 people and damaged about 100 homes and businesses in the town of Kushva. Forecasters warned that more severe thunderstorms remain possible across parts of the country.
Elsewhere, southern China is facing torrential rain after thunderstorms dropped more than 100 millimeters (4 inches) of rain in just three hours in parts of Guangdong province. Officials warned of flash floods and landslides as the region experiences its annual Meiyu, or plum rain, season.
Scientists say Europe is warming faster than the global average, making prolonged heatwaves more common and intense. While no single event can be attributed entirely to climate change, researchers say rising global temperatures are increasing the likelihood of extreme heat.
For many Europeans, the latest temperatures recall the deadly 2003 heatwave, which claimed tens of thousands of lives and prompted governments to strengthen heat emergency plans. Experts say today’s record temperatures continue to test those systems.
The effects are extending beyond Europe. Lower crop yields, higher energy demand and transportation disruptions could affect global food prices, supply chains and energy markets, highlighting the worldwide impact of extreme weather.
Forecasters expect dangerous heat to continue into next week before temperatures gradually ease in some areas. Even then, authorities warn that dry vegetation will keep the risk of wildfires elevated across parts of the continent.
