Europe is preparing for record-breaking temperatures, with holiday resorts popular with British tourists set to hit the high 40s and some parts bracing for 50 degrees Celsius or more. A complex computer-run global forecast system has predicted that on July 28, the 50C barrier could be reached in southern Portugal, which would break the continental record of 48.8C set in August 2021 near Syracuse, Sicily.
Spain and France Face Extreme Heat
The forecast, reported by the Daily Mirror, also predicts that Spain could see temperatures in the high forties, with coastal resort towns like Benidorm only slightly cooler at 45C. Parts of southern France, including the area around Bordeaux, are expected to hit around 47C towards the end of July.
Health Risks of Extreme Heat
While many enjoy sunny weather, extreme heat poses serious risks. It is considered one of the deadliest weather hazards, particularly for older people, young children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Heatwaves can also worsen existing medical conditions, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and contribute to wildfires, poor air quality, and power outages, placing further strain on health services. Even healthy people are advised to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and to stay hydrated.
Expert Warnings
Professor Peter Stott, former Head of Climate Monitoring and Attribution at the UK Met Office, warned in 2021 that Europe could soon experience temperatures of 50C. Speaking to The Independent, he said: "If we don't, in 10 years' time we'll be talking about 50C or more in Europe – just like we're now talking about 50C or more in Canada." Dr Clair Barnes, a climate scientist at Imperial College London and co-author of a World Weather Attribution study, also warned during Europe's 2026 heatwave that rising global temperatures mean records will continue to fall. She said: "We are not doing enough to slow the rate of global warming at the moment. And so as that rate of warming continues... we should expect to see record temperatures being exceeded more and more frequently."
