Extreme Heatwave Expected in Southern Europe
Southern Europe is bracing for an extreme heatwave this week. Meteorologists predict that the region could set a new temperature record. The southern and eastern parts of Europe are expected to experience an exceptionally hot wave lasting for about two weeks, according to the Independent.
Forecasts indicate that starting from July 12, most of Italy will reach a temperature peak of around 40°C. The islands of Sicily and Sardinia are expected to reach a record high of 47-48°C. Meteorologists predict that Italy will be the most affected country in the region, with temperatures not dropping below 22°C even at night.
"We know that temperatures will be above 40 or even 45 degrees. We could approach a temperature record. In any case, the level will be very high," said Professor Luca Mercalli, president of the Italian Meteorological Society.
Cases of heatstroke have already been reported in Rome, with a British tourist fainting near the Colosseum on Tuesday.
The Red Cross is urging people to be especially attentive to the most vulnerable populations during this scorching heatwave. It is recommended to avoid dehydration and abstain from consuming caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
It is worth noting that the highest temperature in European history was recorded on August 11, 2021, in Syracuse, Sicily, with thermometers reaching 48.8°C.
The heatwave has also affected France, Germany, Spain, and Poland. Some parts of Spain are expecting temperatures of up to 44°C by the end of the week.
In the United Kingdom, hot weather will not return until the end of this month. It is expected that heavy rain and thunderstorms will persist until at least July 23. Afterward, the country may experience a two-week period of intense heat.
Extreme temperatures in Europe have occurred as the world witnesses the hottest days in the history of meteorological observations in the first week of July. Professor Richard Betts, a climatologist from the Met Office and the University of Exeter, stated that the alarming indicators align with scientists' warnings regarding further use of fossil fuels.
"All of this is a vivid reminder of what we have known for a long time, and we will see even more extreme situations until we stop accumulating more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere," the scientist emphasized.
It is worth recalling that, according to a study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, last summer's heatwave could have caused over 61,000 deaths in Europe.