Southern Europe warns of first major heatwave of summer

(MENAFN) Southern Europe is grappling with its first significant heatwave of the summer, as temperatures have surged past 40°C (104°F) across countries including Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, and France. The intense heat has triggered health alerts and heightened the threat of wildfires throughout the region.

In Portugal, nearly two-thirds of the country was placed on high alert over the weekend. The capital, Lisbon, was forecast to reach 42°C (107.6°F), with the national weather agency warning of severe fire danger in many areas.

Spain’s meteorological agency issued a special advisory, cautioning that “very high and persistent temperatures” were especially hazardous for vulnerable groups. In Seville, located in the south, temperatures also climbed to 42°C. Authorities urged residents to avoid direct sunlight, drink plenty of water, and keep an eye on elderly individuals and those with chronic health conditions.

Italy’s Health Ministry raised red alerts in 21 out of the country's 27 largest cities, including Rome, Milan, and Naples. In response to the dangerous conditions, several regions such as Lazio, Tuscany, and Umbria revealed plans to halt outdoor labor during the hottest hours of the day. In Sicily and Liguria, bans on such work are already in effect, while unions have called for similar measures to be implemented nationwide.

France, too, is preparing for the worst, with 84 of its 101 departments placed under heatwave alerts. Forecasts predict that temperatures in many areas will exceed 40°C.

The extreme weather has sparked widespread concern as southern Europe braces for what could be a long and challenging summer.

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