Heatwave alert in Europe: High-level warnings issued in many countries

The heatwave intensifying across Europe has prompted meteorological and health authorities in many countries to take action. High-level temperature warnings, which also directly concern those traveling in France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom, have been issued.

While thermometers are expected to rise above 40 degrees in different regions of Western Europe, record-breaking levels have been recorded in some countries. France has been among the countries most affected by the heatwave. According to Météo-France data, the average temperature across the country reached 29.2 degrees on Monday, marking the third-hottest day on record.

It was reported that temperatures exceeded the 40-degree threshold in approximately 20 percent of France. While the high temperatures are expected to last at least until Thursday, it was announced that parks and gardens in Paris will be kept open 24 hours a day. Allowing swimming in the Canal Saint-Martin starting Wednesday is also among the planned measures in the city.

EXPECTATION OF 44 DEGREES IN SPAIN

A heatwave warning valid from Sunday to Wednesday has been issued in Spain. The country's meteorological agency, AEMET, reported that temperatures could reach 44 degrees in some regions as a result of a hot air mass coming from the Sahara combined with the long duration of sunshine at this time of year.

In the United Kingdom, the Met Office issued a red warning for extreme heat for Wednesday and Thursday in large parts of southern and central England and Wales. It is estimated that temperatures could rise to 38 to 40 degrees in some spots, with high humidity also being a factor.

The Met Office warned that the hot weather could have negative effects on health and increase the risk of disruptions to infrastructure such as water, electricity, and mobile phone services. It was also stated that there could be an increase in water safety incidents due to crowding in coastal areas, lakes, and rivers.

In Italy, the Ministry of Health issued level-three heatwave bulletins valid for Tuesday and Wednesday for many cities, including Bologna, Florence, Milan, Rome, Turin, Venice, and Verona. Level-two warnings are in effect in tourist centers such as Bari, Naples, and Palermo.

In Switzerland, MeteoSwiss issued a level-four heatwave warning for some areas, including the northwestern regions, the area around Lake Geneva, and Central Valais. The warnings are expected to last until Saturday, and temperatures are forecast to hover between 34 and 37 degrees on the southern side of the Alps.

In Luxembourg, the Air and Flood Risk Assessment Unit (CERI) issued a red warning until the end of the week. Average temperatures in the country are expected to be between 35 and 40 degrees, with the peak expected on Wednesday. Additional measures, such as increasing water points to protect vulnerable groups during National Day celebrations, are being taken.