Western Europe is grappling with extreme temperatures as a heat dome, described by scientists as an 'atmospheric lid', drives a scorching June heatwave. France registered its hottest day on record, while the UK broke its all-time temperature record for June, prompting the Met Office to issue only its second ever red alert.
Record-Breaking Temperatures and Health Risks
France confirmed 40 drownings in unsupervised swimming areas over recent days as temperatures soared. The UK's Met Office chief scientist Stephen Belcher said: 'To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering. Events like this bring home the implications of climate change, with very high temperatures and humidity bringing significant health implications from heat stress, as well as impacts to a range of sectors such as transport, energy and water supply.'
Historical Records Shattered
The UK's June record surpassed previous highs from 1957 and 1976, while parts of France hit 40°C. The heatwave is part of a broader pattern of climate breakdown, with scientists warning that such events will become more frequent and intense.
