UK holidaymakers heading to Europe over the coming days are being warned of a 'significant heatwave' affecting large parts of the continent, alongside thunderstorms at various popular destinations.
Heatwave Alerts Across Europe
The Met Office has reported that a significant heatwave is developing across much of Europe, with temperatures forecast to climb well above the seasonal average. In Spain, France, and Italy, temperatures are expected to rise into the high 30s Celsius, with some locations likely to exceed 40°C during the coming days.
Several yellow and orange alerts have been issued across Spain and Portugal, warning of rain, thunderstorms, and extreme heat. The UK weather agency described the extent of the heat as 'striking' and noted that conditions could be considered 'extreme'.
Spain: Heat, Rain, and Thunderstorms
In Spain, yellow heat alerts are in force across parts of Andalusia, Aragon, the Balearic Islands, Castile and Leon, Catalonia, Estremadura, Madrid, Navarre, the Basque Country, and Rioja. Spain's meteorological agency AEMET warned that temperatures could exceed 40°C.
Additionally, yellow and amber warnings for rain have been issued in Aragon, Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and Leon, Estremadura, and Galicia, where rainfall could reach up to 30mm in one hour. Thunderstorms are also expected in these regions, with AEMET cautioning of 'very strong gusts and hail'.
Portugal: Thunderstorm and Rain Warnings
Similarly, Portugal has yellow and orange thunderstorm and rain warnings in force over the coming days, affecting several holiday hotspots.
What's Driving the Heatwave?
The Met Office explained that the developing heatwave is being driven by a strong area of high pressure building over continental Europe. This high pressure promotes widespread sinking air, which suppresses cloud formation, allows for prolonged sunshine, and leads to increasing temperatures through compressional heating.
As this process continues through the week, temperatures across much of central and western Europe will rise steadily, pushing well beyond seasonal norms. In many cases, temperatures are expected to reach around 10°C above average for mid-June, highlighting the unusual nature of this early summer heat event.
What to Expect
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Met Office stated: 'The heat is building across Europe this week due to persistent high pressure. Maximum temperatures could reach around 40°C in parts of Spain, France, and Italy over the weekend. Minimum temperatures will not fall much below 20°C, leading to some tropical nights.'
Brits planning to travel to these regions are advised to stay updated on local weather alerts and take necessary precautions against the heat and potential storms.
