Across Europe, temperature records are being reached as an intense heat wave brings extreme temperatures unusually early in the year.
A massive heat dome—a persistent high-pressure system that functions like a lid on a pot, causing the hot air to be trapped and forcing it downward—is the culprit. These systems can persist for extended periods and are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to human-driven climate change.
On May 25, the UK set its highest temperature ever recorded in May with temperatures climbing to 34.8ºC (94.6ºF) in London's Kew Gardens—surpassing the previous mark by 2ºC (3.6ºF). For context, most temperature records typically fall by mere fractions of a degree. But by May 26, the newly established record fell once more, as temperatures reached 35ºC (95ºF). London's typical high in late May is around 20ºC (68ºF).
The UK is far from alone in this unprecedented heat. Much of continental Western Europe is experiencing temperature anomalies of 10 to 15ºC (18 to 27ºF) above seasonal averages this week, with France registering “seven deaths directly or indirectly linked to the heat."
Heat is one of the most evident signs of the climate crises. The greenhouse gases released through fossil fuel combustion create an insulating layer around our planet, warming the Earth. Scientists widely agree that climate change is responsible for more extreme heat waves in various parts of the world, with serious consequences. Wildfires destroy homes and take lives, extreme heat threatens the food supply, and the elderly are especially at risk. And in Europe and Central Asia, half of all children face frequent heat waves—twice the global average of one in four children.
To find out more about the biggest heat waves ever, read up on the hottest days in history in this gallery.