Europe is bracing for another intense heatwave this week, forcing authorities to close schools, cancel train services and issue widespread weather alerts across multiple countries.
In France, the national meteorological service placed 49 departments under a red alert, its highest warning level, starting at midday, while 40 additional departments were placed under an orange alert. Authorities said more than 90% of the population would be affected by the extreme temperatures.
As a result, 845 schools and high schools were closed on Monday, while around 1,800 additional educational institutions were allowed to dismiss students early. Authorities also introduced measures to protect outdoor workers, particularly in construction and other exposed sectors.
In Belgium, rail operator SNCB cancelled several train services during peak heat hours on Monday and Tuesday as temperatures are expected to reach record levels for this time of year. The national weather institute said average temperatures could exceed 27 degrees Celsius this week.
Spain’s meteorological agency warned of a “significant rise in temperatures” across most of the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands through Wednesday, with conditions expected to ease slightly on Thursday but remaining very hot.
Portugal also issued warnings, with its meteorological service placing three inland regions under orange alert and forecasting Tuesday as the hottest day of the week.
In the Netherlands, temperatures could reach 37°C later in the week, with a nationwide yellow alert in place due to “sweltering and uncomfortable heat.”
The UK Met Office forecast a severe heatwave for central and southern England and parts of Wales, issuing orange alerts for midweek. Scientists warned of “unprecedented” conditions with potential impacts on health and infrastructure.
Switzerland said the heatwave would continue into next week, peaking in the second half of the week, while Austria is expected to see temperatures above 35°C in many areas.
In the Balkans, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia are also forecast to experience extreme heat, with temperatures approaching or exceeding 35–38°C in some regions.
Scientists say the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Europe is consistent with long-term climate trends linked to human-driven climate change, which is amplifying extreme weather events.
