


A dangerous heat wave is gripping large swaths of Europe, driving temperatures far above seasonal norms and prompting widespread health and fire alerts. The extreme heat is forecast to persist into next week, with minimal relief expected overnight.
France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece are among the nations experiencing the most severe conditions, as meteorologists warn that Europe can expect more and hotter heat waves in the future because of climate change.
In Spain, temperatures reached 114.8 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius) on Saturday in El Granado, in the southwest of Spain.
According to AEMET, Spain’s state meteorological agency, the figure — pending validation — would set a new national record for June, surpassing the previous high of 113 degrees, recorded in Seville six decades ago.
AEMET warned that the heat wave would persist at least through midweek, with temperatures widely exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit and climbing to over 104 along the Mediterranean coast and the southeastern highlands.
Nighttime lows are not expected to fall below 68 degrees.
Spain’s Ministry of Health issued red, “high risk," alerts across broad areas in the north and west of the country through Monday. Officials urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid exposure during peak sunlight hours and monitor vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant people, children, outdoor laborers and those with chronic illnesses.