Europe faces severe heatwave as temperatures exceed 35°C across the continent

Friday 26 June 2026 - 15:32

By: Azzat Manal

Europe faces severe heatwave as temperatures exceed 35°C across the continent

A widespread heatwave is currently affecting Europe, with temperatures expected to exceed 35°C in several regions, impacting an estimated 150 million people, according to analyses based on meteorological forecasts.

Weather data suggests that more than 420 million people across the continent could experience temperatures above 30°C, excluding Turkey. This represents nearly seven out of ten Europeans exposed to unusually high heat conditions, based on combined projections from Germany’s meteorological services, the European Joint Research Centre, and independent climate monitoring organizations.

The most affected countries include Germany and France, where millions are expected to face extreme temperatures. In Germany alone, around 52 million people may experience heat above 35°C, while in France approximately 34 million are affected. Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Hungary are also expected to experience significant temperature spikes.

Unlike previous days when western France was among the most affected areas, forecasts indicate that Germany will now be the hardest-hit region, with widespread heat stress conditions expected across much of the country.

Authorities in several European states have issued weather warnings and heat alerts as temperatures continue to rise. The Netherlands has issued its first major heatwave alert of the season, while health officials across the continent are urging citizens to take precautions against dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

Meteorologists warn that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense, raising concerns about the long-term impact of climate change on public health, infrastructure, and energy demand across Europe.