Severe Heatwave Sizzles Europe: Temperatures Cross 40°C, Wildfires In France, Turkey

Last Updated:June 30, 2025, 16:45 IST

Falling water levels on the Rhine River, which is a key transport route for commodities like grains, minerals, and oil products, are hindering shipping operations.

A tourist holds an umbrella to protect from the sun at the Acropolis hill archaeological site, as a heatwave hits Athens, Greece (Reuters image)

Extreme heatwave conditions are being witnessed across Europe, with several areas reporting temperatures up to 42 degrees Celsius (107.6F). As the temperature continues to rise, alerts have been issued by the weather department for many countries.

France and Turkey witnessed wildfires on Monday as an early heatwave hit the region.

In Turkey, the wildfires raged for a second day in the western province of Izmir, fanned by strong winds, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said, forcing the evacuation of four villages and two neighbourhoods.

The temperatures are likely to rise to peak on Tuesday and Wednesday in France. Wildfires also break out t on Sunday in the southwestern Aude department, where temperatures topped 40 degrees Celsius.

Countries like Germany and Spain are also battling the heatwave conditions.

The rising temperature in Germany has affected more than just day-to-day activities. Falling water levels on the Rhine River, which is a key transport route for commodities like grains, minerals, and oil products, are hindering shipping operations and inflating freight costs, according to commodity traders. The heat is likely to intensify more, with Cologne bracing for temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Spain is also reeling under extreme heatwave conditions. In Seville, where world leaders have convened for a United Nations conference, temperatures may soar to 42 degrees Celsius.

The national meteorological agency, AEMET, has warned that the country is on track to record its hottest June ever, with the heatwave expected to persist until at least Thursday. Most regions remain under high alert.

Italy has issued red alerts for 21 cities, including Rome and Milan, due to the scorching conditions. Weather forecasts predict highs of 41 degrees Celsius in Florence, 38 degrees Celsius in Bologna, and 37 degrees Celsius in Perugia.

With temperatures continuing to rise, European nations are on high alert.

Globally, climate data reflects a worrying trend. The EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that average global surface temperatures last month were 1.4 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Scientists cite the rise in greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion, as the primary reason for climate change.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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News world Severe Heatwave Sizzles Europe: Temperatures Cross 40°C; Wildfires In France, Turkey