Europe continues to experience severe heat waves

What’s going on?
Europe is experiencing one of its worst heatwaves in decades. Temperatures are approaching 44°C in some regions, especially in Spain, southern France and southern Germany. The situation is similar in Italy, but the main hotspots are:

Catalonia (Spain):
Wildfires in Catalonia have severely damaged several communities. Eight people have reportedly died, dozens have been injured and hundreds have been evacuated. The Catalan regional government has declared a state of emergency.
Military helicopters are also being deployed to fight the fires.

France:
A red alert has been issued in southern regions such as Provence and Languedoc. Clinics and hospitals are overcrowded. Many schools are closed for the safety of children.

The government is urging residents to stay indoors and avoid driving during rush hour.

Germany:
High temperatures in Bavaria have disrupted power supplies and rail services.

The fire service advises residents to stay away from wild areas due to the risk of wildfires.

Population and economic impact
Medical effects:
Cases of heat stroke, fainting and dehydration have increased significantly. Severe cases are reported in the elderly and children.

Energy system:
Solar power systems are overloaded; electricity consumption is reaching record levels due to the use of air conditioners and fans.

Agriculture:
In many areas, agricultural crops such as vineyards and olive groves are on the verge of extinction.

Official advice:
Stay in the shade and drink plenty of water

Avoid walking during peak hours (12:00–17:00)

Be careful with children and the elderly

Do not use fire in open spaces

Call for help immediately if someone faints due to the heat

Media reaction
The media are spreading shocking images of villages covered in scarlet skies, burning forests and evacuations. Particularly tragic is the video taken against the backdrop of the fires in Catalonia, where residents flee their homes minutes before the flames reach them.