The severe heatwave affecting Europe has forced many countries to implement urgent measures and issue public warnings. While temperatures are expected to approach record levels, a major forest fire in Greece continues to be fought.
Red alert and measures in France
France expects 35 of its 96 departments to be placed under red alert today (Sunday) due to the heatwave. Temperatures are forecast to reach 39–40°C along a line stretching from the southwest through the Paris region to Burgundy, with some areas expected to see 41°C.
Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu, following a crisis meeting, banned alcohol sales at music festivals such as 'Fête de la Musique' and other public events in these 35 red-alert departments.
Paris authorities ordered parks to remain open overnight, while Germany also issued heat warnings covering most of the country and reported temperatures approaching 38°C.
Life impacted in Germany and Italy
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) warned that combined heat and humidity could lead to powerful thunderstorms.
In Italy, temperature expectations reaching 36–37°C in areas outside the Alps have impacted daily life and tourist activities. Visitors waiting in line at Rome’s Colosseum said the heat turned tours into endurance tests.
In Bologna, one of the peninsula’s hottest cities, people used water from the Neptune Fountain dating from the 16th century to cool their faces and sought shade under arcades.
Football viewing area closed in Spain
In Spain, the Spanish Football Federation closed the fan zone set up with large screens in Madrid’s Plaza de Colón. This decision means fans will have to watch Spain’s World Cup match against Saudi Arabia elsewhere.
Forest fire in Greece: Two villages evacuated
A major forest fire on Greece’s Evia island prompted authorities to order the evacuation of Mesohoria and Rapti villages. The fire started Saturday afternoon and, as flames approached homes, fire crews called residents to leave the area.
The Greek Fire Service stated that 88 firefighters and volunteers were working to extinguish the blaze, with eight aircraft and six helicopters deployed to support the operation. Strong winds from the north were reported to have sparked new fires.
Experts emphasize that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense in different parts of Europe, increasing the risk of health emergencies and economic disruption during summer.
