Germany and Italy experienced scorching conditions on Saturday as a heatwave that has claimed dozens of lives across Western Europe moved eastward. Temperatures in Germany broke records above 40 degrees Celsius, while Britain, France, Switzerland, and Germany also experienced record heat in June.
The weather system could challenge more temperature records as it progresses towards Poland. Scientists pointed out that such extreme conditions would be virtually impossible without human-induced climate change, which has amplified night-time temperatures by a factor of 100 compared to two decades ago.
On Friday, Germany set a new record with 41.3 degrees Celsius near Saarbruecken close to the French border. Authorities issued extreme heat warnings for nearly all of Germany on Saturday and urged people to conserve water due to expected temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees Celsius across the country, with local highs anticipated at 42 degrees.
Heatwave impacts were felt in France, where dozens of individuals—both young and old—died during the heat. Rail travel and power generation were disrupted, alcohol bans were imposed, schools were temporarily closed, and outdoor events were postponed. Organizers adjusted the cycling and running courses for a triathlon event taking place on Sunday in Frankfurt due to rising temperatures.
Italy issued red alerts for 18 cities affected by the heatwave on Saturday and Sunday, with some areas expecting temperatures as high as 39 degrees Celsius. Italian singer Loredana Berte canceled her concert in Bergamo due to health concerns posed by performing under these conditions.
Source: Original report
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