Europes Heatwave Compared to Global Temperatures in Major Cities

Heatwave Grips Europe, Exceeding Temperatures Typically Seen in Middle East

A severe heatwave has affected several European cities, including Paris and other major metropolitan areas, with temperatures reaching as high as 40C (104F). The extreme weather conditions have prompted authorities to issue red alerts in parts of the UK, France, Spain, and Italy. Health risks, wildfires, and travel disruptions are among the concerns being addressed by officials.

Emergency measures have been put in place, including a localized alcohol ban in certain areas of France under red alert. Nationwide heat warnings have also been issued in Germany, while a World Cup fan zone screening in Madrid has been cancelled due to high temperatures reaching 39C (102F).

A persistent area of high pressure, known as a heat dome, is responsible for the extreme temperatures, which are being exacerbated by hot air moving north from North Africa. Unusually warm seas around the UK, Ireland, France, and the western Mediterranean have also contributed to the heatwave.

According to data from Copernicus, daily average temperatures in some of the worst-affected areas have soared more than 12C above the 1991-2020 baseline. Scientists attribute this early-season heatwave to a broader warming trend, which is making heatwaves more frequent and intense.

Europe is experiencing rapid temperature increases, with temperatures rising by approximately 0.56C per decade since the mid-1990s. Climate change is also affecting the timing and duration of heatwaves.

The graphic below provides a comparison of maximum temperatures in European cities on June 24 with other cities around the world. The temperature readings used are based on data from weather stations using platinum resistance thermometers, which provide an accurate reading of air temperature.

It’s worth noting that there are two widely used scales for measuring temperature: Celsius and Fahrenheit. Most countries use the Celsius scale, while a few countries, including the US, use Fahrenheit as their official scale.

Source: Al Jazeera