Europe has just experienced its most severe and widespread heatwave on record, affecting more than 150 million people. This week's Guardian Weekly magazine delves into why the continent was so unprepared despite decades of climate warnings, and how to live with extreme temperatures.
Unprepared for Extreme Heat
Europe environment correspondent Ajit Niranjan examines why Europe, despite decades of warnings from climate scientists, was still so unprepared for extreme heat. Angelique Chrisafis reports from France, where half of all homes have insufficient protection from high temperatures, leaving inhabitants dangerously overheated.
Niranjan also looks at adaptations European cities have introduced, such as checking on older neighbours and greening spaces, to keep people safe during heatwaves. Helen Massy-Beresford explains how Paris went into 'heatwave mode' as temperatures reached record levels, suggesting France's actions could offer a model for other countries.
Venezuela's Devastating Twin Earthquakes
The twin tremors that hit Venezuela moments apart last Wednesday were its biggest since 1900, and at least 1,700 people have died. Clavel Rangel and Tom Phillips report on the struggle to respond to the crisis.
Other Highlights in This Edition
In technology, Jesse Hassenger asks whether Toy Story 5 goes hard enough on big tech, setting up a tug-of-war between physical and digital play for children. Shaun Walker analyses the impact of Trump 2.0 on Nato, as leaders fear they can no longer rely on US help if Russia attacks. Charlotte Higgins reflects on reporting from Ukraine since 2022, noting that words are not always enough to convey the experience of being under fire. Hettie Judah explores the iconography of Frida Kahlo, questioning whether brand Frida has obscured the real artist as a major exhibition opens in London.
Other reads include the rise of Zohran Mamdani and a new wave of democratic socialists in the US, a nostalgic article on beach food, and highlights from the Guardian website including a journey into Spain's cave paintings, Barney Ronay's World Cup review, and a gallery on single mothers caring for disabled children.
