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Europe heatwave: A country-wise guide on alerts issued, what to expect next

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A heatwave spread across much of Europe on Monday, with temperatures rising sharply in several countries and more heat expected in the days ahead. Authorities in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and the UK have issued heat alerts, with meteorologists warning that new highs could be recorded by Wednesday.

The heat has already led to disruptions and safety concerns. In Turkey, strong winds worsened forest fires, forcing temporary closure of Izmir airport and evacuation of villages in Hatay and other provinces. In France, wildfires burned nearly 400 hectares in the southern Aude region, while misting stations were set up in Paris to help people cope with the heat.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, tweeting from Seville where the temperature reached 42°C, said, “Extreme heat is no longer a rare event, it has become the new normal.” He called for urgent action on climate change, noting that the planet is “getting hotter & more dangerous.”

Dr. Hans Kluge of the World Health Organization’s Europe office also raised concerns, warning that older adults, children, outdoor workers, and people with chronic conditions face heightened health risks.

Country-wise updates:

Portugal has issued red warnings in seven of 18 districts, with forecasts expecting temperatures to reach 43°C.

Spain is experiencing its first major heatwave of the year, with no relief expected until Thursday. On Sunday, the national average temperature reached 28°C, the highest ever recorded for June 29.

France is taking special measures for vulnerable groups. Wildfires in the south prompted the deployment of planes and 300 firefighters.

Turkey reported over 1,500 people evacuated in Hatay province alone due to fires near residential areas.

Italy’s Health Ministry placed 21 cities under red alert. Outdoor work has been restricted in some regions. Meanwhile, torrential rain in parts of the north led to floods in Bardonecchia, where two people were reported dead.

Britain is experiencing one of the hottest starts to Wimbledon on record, with temperatures nearing 30°C. Tournament rules now allow players to take breaks if temperatures exceed 30.1°C mid-match.

Germany expects temperatures to hit 39°C in the south. Authorities in some areas have restricted water usage from rivers and lakes.

Greece has faced multiple wildfires this summer, including one that ignited south of Athens on Thursday and others that erupted on the island of Chios last Sunday.

At the Berlin Zoo, measures were taken to protect animals from the heat, elephants were showered, and bears received frozen fruit treats.

Weather agencies say the heatwave might or might not ease in some areas later this week, but experts have warned that such extreme conditions are becoming more frequent due to climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

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