Dhaka, June 30 — Southern Europe is sweltering under severe heatwaves, with temperatures soaring above 40degC (104degF) across Italy, Spain, Greece, and Portugal, prompting fresh warnings from local authorities about the heightened risk of wildfires.
Climate experts have linked the rising frequency and intensity of such extreme heat events to climate change, cautioning that southern Europe is becoming increasingly vulnerable to these conditions.
In Portugal, nearly two-thirds of the country was under high alert for extreme heat and wildfires on Sunday, with temperatures in Lisbon expected to exceed 42degC (107degF).
Italian authorities are also grappling with the heat, with several regions – including Lazio, Tuscany, Calabria, Puglia, and Umbria – planning to restrict outdoor work during peak afternoon hours. Trade unions are calling for the government to implement similar protective measures nationwide.
On Sunday, Italy’s Health Ministry issued its highest heat alert for 21 of the 27 cities it monitors, including popular tourist destinations like Rome, Milan, and Naples.
Wildfire near Athens triggers evacuations amid heat wave
In Rome, tourists were seen crowding around fountains, using umbrellas, and seeking shade near landmarks such as the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain to escape the scorching sun. Similar scenes played out in Milan and Naples, where street vendors sold refreshments, including lemonade, to help locals and visitors cope with the heat.
In Greece, authorities remained on high alert for wildfires as the first summer heatwave was expected to persist through the weekend. A large blaze erupted south of Athens on Thursday, triggering evacuations and road closures near the ancient Temple of Poseidon. Strong winds fanned the flames, damaging homes and filling the skies with smoke.
Greek emergency services deployed over 130 firefighters, along with 12 planes and 12 helicopters to contain the fire. Police evacuated at least 40 residents, with five areas placed under evacuation orders.
In Spain, temperatures soared to 42degC (107degF) in Seville and other parts of the south and central regions. The national weather agency Aemet warned that June is on track to be the hottest month since records began.
Authorities across Spain issued health alerts and advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and take extra precautions for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and children.
How to stay cool and safe during a heat wave
Scientists have long warned about the dangers of rising global temperatures. A study published in The Lancet Public Health last year projected that heat-related deaths in Europe could more than quadruple by mid-century under current climate policies. Although historically more people have died from cold than heat, experts say the benefits of milder winters will be outweighed by the sharp rise in extreme heat events, contributing to a net increase in weather-related mortality.
Source: Agency
