Europe Heatwave: Temperatures Reach 46°C Due to Heat Dome

Southern Europe is facing a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching 46°C in parts of Spain and Portugal. Germany is also expecting temperatures to rise, reaching 40°C in the coming days.

Authorities have issued health warnings and put fire services on alert. In Portugal, a temperature of 46.6°C was recorded in Mora, while in Italy hospital admissions have increased by 20% in hot regions such as Tuscany.

In France, 88% of regions are under orange alert and schools have suspended operations. In Germany, drought is increasing the risk of wildfires.

Experts attribute the situation to the heat dome phenomenon, which traps hot air. Europe is already 2°C warmer than in the pre-industrial era, making heatwaves more intense.

Scientists call heatwaves a 'silent killer' as they increase deaths and affect vulnerable groups and pregnant women. They also cause damage to crops, railways and power lines.

Source: protothema.gr