Seven people have died in France as an extreme early summer heatwave sweeps across western Europe, bringing record May temperatures to several countries. The French government spokesperson Maud Bregeon confirmed the deaths on Tuesday, noting that five were drowning-related.
France recorded its hottest May day on Monday and again on Tuesday, with the national weather agency Météo France predicting temperatures could reach 39C in some areas. Thirteen of France's 96 administrative departments are on orange alert, the second highest level, while 29 are on yellow warning.
The UK also saw its hottest May day on Tuesday, with temperatures reaching 35C near London, breaking the previous record of 33.5C set on Monday. In Ireland, a May record of 28.8C was recorded at two weather stations.
Climate scientists attribute the heatwave to a heat dome trapping hot air from Morocco under an area of high pressure. Christophe Cassou, a climate scientist, described the event as unprecedented, with a one in 1,000 chance of occurring in the climate of 1979 to 2025. Robert Vautard of the French climate research institute warned that such events are becoming more likely due to climate change.
In Spain, temperatures of 36-38C are expected to continue until Friday, with possible highs of 40C. Italy's Lazio region has imposed restrictions on outdoor work during the hottest hours. The French prime minister has called a meeting of key ministers to assess heatwave preparations.
