Europe Heatwave: Summer’s First Wave 2024
Southern Europe is gripped by a severe heatwave, the first major one of summer, forcing authorities to implement safety measures. Italy sees outdoor work bans as temperatures soar; Rome anticipates 37C, driving residents to seek relief. France and Portugal brace for extreme heat, with Marseille offering free pool access and Lisbon forecasting 42C. Spain expects temperatures to exceed 40C across much of the country, with the past three years being the hottest on record. Climate change is driving these extreme events. News directory 3 reports live updates on heatwave conditions and official responses, including alerts across multiple countries. With the heat expected to intensify, preparedness is key. Discover what’s next in the coming days.
Southern Europe Heatwave prompts Safety measures
Updated June 28, 2025
Southern Europe is sweltering under the first major heatwave of the summer, as climate change continues to drive temperatures upward. From Rome to Lisbon,residents and tourists alike are seeking refuge from the heat,prompting authorities to take action.
In italy,Rome is expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius (99 Fahrenheit),driving people to the city’s numerous fountains. Sicily and the Liguria region have already imposed bans on outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day. Trade unions are pushing for these measures to be extended nationwide, as the extreme heat poses significant risks to outdoor workers.
France is also feeling the heat. Marseille expects temperatures near 40C (104F), leading officials to offer free access to public swimming pools. In Nice, nearly 250 portable fans have been distributed to schools to help students cope wiht the high temperatures.
Portugal is preparing for extreme heat and heightened risk of forest fires, with Lisbon forecast to reach 42C (108F). Two-thirds of the country will be under high alert on Sunday.
Spain anticipates temperatures exceeding 40C (104F) across much of the country. The spanish meteorological agency predicts that some areas, including the Guadalquivir, Guadiana, and Tagus regions, could see temperatures as high as 42C (108F). The past three years have been the hottest on record in Spain.
“I try not to think about it,but I drink a lot of water and never stay still,as that’s when you get sunstroke,” said Sriane Mina,an Italian student in Venice.
Scientists have warned that the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves, are a direct outcome of global warming. The EU’s Copernicus climate monitor reported that Europe experienced its hottest March ever, preceding this current heatwave. The National Centers for Environmental Information reports that 2024 saw over $300 billion in disaster costs worldwide.
What’s next
The heatwave is expected to intensify further. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautions, stay hydrated, and limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and implement additional measures as needed to protect public health and safety.