First heatwave of the summer to bring 42C temperatures | World | News
Extreme heat is hitting a flurry of holiday hotspots as Europe faces its first major heatwave of the summer with temperatures expected to hit 42C. Southern Europe is on high alert with health and fire warnings having been issued in certain countries over the weekend.
Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Portugal are among the countries affected – with the Spanish city of Seville, otherwise known as the frying pan of Europe, forecast to hit 42C on Sunday. Hot air from North Africa, which is spreading across popular European holiday destinations is contributing to the soaring temperatures. Aemet, Spain’s national weather agency issued a warning that the intense weather could pose particular risks to vulnerable people and those exposed to the sun for extended periods.
According to the agency the peak days of the heatwave are likely to be tomorrow, June 29 and Monday June 30 with temperatures to soar above 40°C.
Aemet officials say the extreme weather is expected to linger overnight.
Yesterday in Majorca a tourist died of heatstroke while out hiking with friends in the scorching weather. The 34-year-old was walking on the Camí de Son Sales trail near Sóller, when he collapsed
Also in Spain, emergency staff have been placed on standby to deal with a spike in heatstroke cases especially among vulnerable people, including children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
Meanwhile, Italy’s health ministry has issued a red alert for 21 cities this weekend. The top red alert is in place for key Italian cities including Rome, Milan and Venice.
Sicily has ordered a ban on outdoor work in the hottest hours of the day, as has the Liguria region in northern Italy.
With the mercury in Marseille hitting 40C authorities have opened public swimming pools for free to help residents beat the Mediterranean heat.
French meteorologist, Jérôme Cerisier, says they are expecting 10 to 15 degrees above the seasonal average.
Temperatures in Greece yesterday surpassed 40C with authorities advising the public to stay indoors.
Authorities in the Greek capital set up a hotline for anyone requiring medical advice due to the roasting weather.
Widespread amber heat alert are in place for the UK. The amber warning are in place in five regions – East Midlands, South East, South West, East and London – these have been in place from 12pm on Friday, June 27, to 6pm on Tuesday, July 1.
Other areas in the UK have been issued less severe warnings, with Yorkshire and Humber and the West Midlands being under a yellow warning.
