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Europe is facing an unusually intense heatwave, with several countries recording temperatures far above seasonal averages weeks before the height of summer. Meteorologists say a strong heat dome has settled over the continent, trapping hot air and driving temperatures to levels rarely seen in May.
The United Kingdom recorded its hottest May temperature ever this week. London’s Kew Gardens reached 34.8°C on Monday before climbing again to 35°C on Tuesday. Typical daytime highs for the city at this time of year are usually close to 20°C. Forecasters described the conditions as exceptional for spring.
The heat created difficult conditions across Britain. A wildfire erupted near Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, while parts of southeast England experienced water shortages after demand surged during the hot spell. Overnight temperatures also remained unusually high, with some areas staying above 20°C, creating what meteorologists call a tropical night.
Experts say the temperatures are especially dangerous in the UK because most homes are designed to retain warmth during winter rather than keep interiors cool. Air conditioning is still uncommon in British households, leaving many people vulnerable during prolonged hot weather. Britain’s Climate Change Committee recently warned that much of the country’s infrastructure was built for cooler conditions that are rapidly changing.
Extreme heat has spread across much of Western Europe, with temperatures running between 10°C and 15°C above normal in some regions. France registered its hottest May day on record, according to Météo France. Officials there confirmed several deaths connected either directly or indirectly to the heat, including fatalities linked to outdoor sporting events and drownings.
Spain is also experiencing severe conditions, particularly in southern areas where temperatures are expected to climb close to 40°C later in the week. National weather agencies described the situation as highly unusual for late May.
Climate scientists continue to warn that human-driven global warming is increasing both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, and researchers say events like this are becoming far more likely than they were decades ago. Some experts described the latest records in countries such as the UK and France as astonishing even within the context of climate change projections.
The long-term human cost of extreme heat is already significant. More than 62,000 heat-related deaths were recorded across Europe during 2024, which was the hottest year ever measured globally. Scientists also warn that the developing El Niño climate pattern could push temperatures even higher during the next two years.
