Extreme heatwaves in Europe

Europe has been experiencing record-breaking heatwaves, and with this, some countries have experienced massive wildfires and droughts. This situation is expected to continue for a while, as an article in France24.com on 10 August 2026 argues, “Much of Europe is bracing for yet another heatwave following periods of scorching temperatures that have driven rivers to record lows, ignited historic forest fires and contributed to thousands of deaths.”

The article says, “The United Kingdom’s Met Office warned at the weekend that the summer’s fifth hot spell was about to take hold in a country whose infrastructure has been built for a more temperate, cooler climate.” It further states that “France and Spain have already seen historic wildfires so far this summer, with record levels of drought causing tinder-dry conditions.”

The article also claims that “at least 12,000 excess deaths were recorded across nine European countries during one heatwave in June, an AFP analysis of national statistics found last month, a toll that could rise as more data is released.” It is reported that the heatwaves caused water levels in the Rhine and Danube rivers to recede considerably, affecting the transportation and economic benefit they provide in the region.