A severe heatwave, exacerbated by carbon pollution, is scorching southern Europe, prompting health warnings and emergency measures. Tourists have collapsed in Greece and Italy, and a worker died near Milan as temperatures soared. In Athens, thermometers are expected to hit 42C, with Seville reaching 41C and Rome 40C.
The heatwave, named Cerberus, has brought hot air from Africa. The World Meteorological Organisation's Alvaro Silva warned that climate change is making such extremes stronger and more frequent. By 2050, about half of Europe's population may face high heat stress in summer. The planet has warmed 1.2C since industrialisation, with Europe warming nearly twice as fast.
Authorities have taken unprecedented steps to protect public health. Greece briefly closed the Acropolis and banned construction and delivery work during the hottest hours. Remote work was encouraged in Athens, where urban heat islands keep temperatures high at night. In Spain, the Red Cross advised staying indoors near wildfires.
Heatwaves are often called 'silent killers,' as most deaths go uncounted. A study found over 61,000 people died from summer heat in Europe last year, with women and older people most affected. Scientists also warn of hotter nights, which prevent the body from recovering and increase health risks.
