Intense heat dome will bake Spain, France and the U.K.
A historic heat dome caused the worst heatwave ever recorded in Europe during late June 2026. Thousands of people died, with over 1,000 excess deaths in France and more than 800 in Spain. High humidity has increased heat stress across hundreds of cities.
What changed
New data confirms record temperatures in Germany, Spain, and France, and forecasts a second heat dome in July.
Live updates
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European Heatwave Breaks Records With Second Heat Dome Forecast
confidence 90%A historic heat dome caused the worst heatwave ever recorded in Europe during late June 2026. Thousands of people died, with over 1,000 excess deaths in France and more than 800 in Spain. High humidity has increased heat stress across hundreds of cities.
What's confirmed:
- The June 2026 heatwave is the worst ever recorded on the European continent.
- Spain reached a peak temperature of 45.1°C and Germany hit an all-time record of 41.5°C.
- France recorded its hottest day ever and experienced over 1,000 excess deaths.
- Spain reported more than 800 excess deaths.
- Scientists state these conditions would be impossible without the climate crisis.
Still unconfirmed:
- Forest fire danger may increase across Spain, France, and parts of Italy due to dry and windy conditions.
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Climate Change Linked to Record European Heat Dome
confidence 90%High pressure in the upper atmosphere is trapping heat across Western Europe. Temperatures are reaching 40 degrees Celsius in some areas. Scientists state these record conditions would be impossible without climate change.
What's confirmed:
- High pressure in the upper atmosphere is trapping heat over regions.
- Temperatures in parts of Western Europe have reached 40 degrees Celsius.
Still unconfirmed:
- The record-breaking heat this month would not have been possible without climate change.
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Massive Heat Dome Triggers Red Alerts Across Europe
confidence 90%A powerful heat dome is trapping heat and humidity across Europe, pushing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Red weather alerts are active in Spain, France, Italy, and the U.K. The extreme weather has caused school closures and train cancellations.
What's confirmed:
- Temperatures across multiple European countries have spiked above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Red weather alerts have been issued for Spain, France, Italy, and the U.K.
- A heat dome consisting of high pressure systems is trapping heat and humidity over the continent.
- France has restricted public alcohol consumption and outdoor sports due to the heatwave.
- The heatwave has resulted in train cancellations and school closures.
- Temperatures in some areas are up to 25 degrees above average.
Still unconfirmed:
- Forty people have drowned in France.
- France recorded its hottest ever day.
- The heatwave will obliterate hundreds of June temperature records.