France declares red alerts and emergency response

France has issued red and amber heat alerts across large parts of the country, while Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu convened an emergency meeting of 14 ministers. Around three-quarters of the French population is expected to be affected, with temperatures forecast between 37°C and 42°C, and potentially higher on Monday and Tuesday.

UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Italy face soaring temperatures

In the United Kingdom, the Met Office says southern England could see temperatures in the low 30s on Sunday, with conditions expected to intensify early next week. Humidity levels are also expected to rise, increasing the likelihood of “tropical nights” where temperatures remain above 20°C.

Spain is also bracing for extreme heat, with forecasts of up to 42°C in parts of the country, while Portugal expects similar peaks midweek. Germany has issued heat warnings as temperatures approach 38°C, and Italy is preparing for highs of around 40°C in several regions.

Climate change driving more frequent and severe heatwaves

Meteorologists warn that climate change is contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves across Europe, increasing risks to public health, infrastructure, and vulnerable communities. Experts say such extreme weather patterns are becoming increasingly common rather than exceptional, placing growing pressure on ecosystems and essential services across the continent.